‘Severe respiratory crisis’: Pope Francis in critical condition

Pope Francis remains in critical condition following a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis that required high levels of oxygen, the Vatican announced Saturday.

Escalating health concerns

The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalized for a week due to pneumonia and a complex lung infection, also underwent blood transfusions after tests revealed low platelet counts linked to anemia. Despite being alert and spending the day in an armchair, the Vatican said he was experiencing more pain than the previous day, with his prognosis still uncertain.

Doctors have warned that while he is responding to treatment, the primary danger remains the potential onset of sepsis, a serious blood infection that could lead to organ failure. As of Friday, there was no evidence of sepsis, but medical experts stressed that his condition is precarious.

Doctors monitoring high-risk factors

Francis, who has a history of chronic lung issues, was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14 after a worsening bout of bronchitis. His medical team diagnosed a severe respiratory infection involving bacterial, viral, and fungal elements, leading to pneumonia in both lungs.

Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine and surgery at Gemelli, emphasized that the biggest concern is preventing the germs in Francis’ respiratory system from entering his bloodstream. “Sepsis, combined with his respiratory condition and age, would be extremely difficult to overcome,” Alfieri cautioned.

Vatican dismisses resignation rumors

As speculation about a possible papal resignation spread, the Vatican strongly denied reports suggesting secret meetings between senior officials regarding his potential departure. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, dismissed such rumors as unnecessary distractions, reiterating that Francis remains conscious, alert, and engaged in his work.

Francis has previously stated that he has a written resignation letter in place should he ever become medically incapable of fulfilling his duties. However, the Vatican has made it clear that no discussions regarding his resignation are currently taking place.

Adjustments to Holy Year events

This weekend marks a special celebration for deacons in the Catholic Church as part of the Vatican’s Holy Year, an event held once every 25 years. Francis was originally scheduled to preside over Sunday’s Mass but will be replaced by the Holy Year organizer. For the second consecutive weekend, he is expected to forgo his traditional Sunday noon blessing.

Despite his absence, those attending the Holy Year celebrations expressed their solidarity with the ailing pope. “Even though he’s not here, we know he’s with us,” said Luis Arnaldo López Quirindongo, a deacon from Puerto Rico. “He is in our hearts and in our prayers.”

As Francis continues his battle with illness, the world watches and prays for his recovery.