BREAKING NEWS: Pope Francis in Critical Condition, Severe Respiratory Crisis, Vatican says/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Pope Francis is in critical condition after suffering an asthmatic respiratory crisis and ongoing pneumonia complications, the Vatican confirmed. Doctors warn of sepsis risk as the 88-year-old pontiff battles a complex lung infection requiring oxygen support and blood transfusions. Holy Year celebrations continue without him as the Catholic world prays for his recovery.
Pope Francis Health Update Quick Looks
- Current condition: Critical, with worsening lung infection and asthmatic crisis
- Treatment: High-flow oxygen therapy, cortisone, antibiotics, and blood transfusions for anemia
- Sepsis risk: Doctors warn bloodstream infection remains the primary threat
- Hospitalization: Admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14 after worsening bronchitis
- Missed events: Holy Year celebrations continue in his absence; Sunday blessing canceled again
- Recovery outlook: Prognosis remains uncertain; long-term respiratory issues expected to persist
- Medical team: Care coordinated by personal physician Dr. Luigi Carbone and specialist team
- Catholic community: Worldwide prayers offered as Vatican maintains operations
BREAKING NEWS: Pope Francis in Critical Condition Amid Severe Respiratory Crisis, Vatican says
Deep Look
ROME (AP) — Pope Francis remains in critical condition following an asthmatic respiratory crisis that has complicated his ongoing battle with pneumonia, the Vatican announced Saturday. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli hospital since February 14, is receiving high-flow oxygen and blood transfusions to address anemia associated with his lung infection.
“The Holy Father continues to be alert and spent the day in an armchair although in more pain than yesterday,” the Vatican’s statement read. “At the moment the prognosis is reserved.”
Francis was initially hospitalized after a week of worsening bronchitis that progressed into a complex viral, bacterial, and fungal respiratory infection affecting both lungs. Despite receiving “absolute rest” orders from his medical team, the pope’s condition deteriorated Friday when doctors identified the onset of pneumonia alongside his chronic lung disease.
Dr. Luigi Carbone, the pope’s personal physician, expressed cautious concern, noting that “he is not out of danger.” The greatest threat now is the potential development of sepsis—a life-threatening blood infection that could arise from the lung infection. “In fragile patients like him, stability can shift rapidly,” Carbone said.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine and surgery at Gemelli hospital, warned that sepsis remains the most significant risk. “If the germs in his lungs enter the bloodstream, it becomes extremely difficult to control,” Alfieri stated during a Friday press conference. “He knows he’s in danger and asked us to convey that message.”
Despite his condition, Francis reportedly insisted on continuing work at the Vatican before his hospitalization, citing “institutional and private commitments,” according to Carbone. His care now involves a multidisciplinary team including cardiologists and infectious disease specialists.
Meanwhile, the Vatican’s Holy Year celebrations proceeded without the pope. This weekend’s events focused on honoring deacons, a ministry essential to the Catholic Church. Though Francis had been scheduled to lead Sunday’s Mass and deliver his traditional noon blessing, the Vatican confirmed that both would be carried out by the Holy Year organizer.
“Even though he’s not physically here, we know he’s with us in spirit,” said Luis Arnaldo Lopez Quirindongo, a deacon from Puerto Rico attending the Vatican Jubilee event.
Doctors emphasized that even if Francis recovers from the current infection, his chronic respiratory issues will continue to require careful management.
“He has to get over this infection, and we all hope he does,” Alfieri said. “But the reality is that all doors are open, and the situation can change rapidly.”
As Francis battles through this critical phase, millions of Catholics worldwide continue to offer prayers for his health. The Vatican remains hopeful but realistic about the challenges ahead, underscoring the delicate balance between optimism and medical caution.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.