Pope Francis in stable condition after severe respiratory crisis

Pope Francis spent a “restful night” in hospital, the Vatican reported on Sunday, following a critical health scare linked to pneumonia and a complex lung infection. The 88-year-old pontiff experienced a severe asthmatic respiratory crisis, leading to his hospitalization a week ago.

On Saturday, Vatican officials confirmed that Francis was receiving “high flows” of oxygen to aid his breathing and underwent blood transfusions due to low platelet counts, crucial for blood clotting. Despite his condition, he remained alert and spent the day seated in an armchair, though experiencing more pain than the previous day. His prognosis remains uncertain.

Medical experts have warned of the risk of sepsis, a potentially life-threatening complication of pneumonia. However, as of Friday, there were no signs of sepsis, and the pope was responding well to his medication.

Francis, who has chronic lung disease, was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14 after a bout of bronchitis worsened. Doctors diagnosed him with a complex viral, bacterial, and fungal respiratory infection, which progressed to pneumonia in both lungs. His treatment includes cortisone, antibiotics, and supplemental oxygen.

Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine and surgery at Gemelli hospital, revealed, “He knows the severity of his condition and wanted us to communicate that.”

Amid speculation about a possible resignation, the Vatican emphasized that the pope remains fully conscious, alert, and actively involved in his duties. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, publicly dismissed rumors, reaffirming Francis’ continued leadership.

The pope has previously stated that he has a resignation letter prepared in case he becomes medically incapable of fulfilling his responsibilities. However, the Vatican clarified that no such decision is currently being considered.