Pope Francis Enjoys Restful Night Amid Concerns Over Health Status

Overview

Pope Francis enjoyed a quiet night this past Saturday, as reported by the Vatican on Sunday morning. The 88-year-old pontiff was previously in critical condition due to a respiratory emergency, following a week-long hospitalization related to a lung infection.

Pope Francis is currently hospitalized for a lung infection. (Photo by Simone Padovani/Getty … [+] Images)

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Key Updates

According to a brief statement from the Vatican early Sunday, “The night passed calmly, and the pope rested well,” as reported by the Associated Press.

Later that day, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis is conscious, ongoing tests are being conducted, and he is receiving supplemental oxygen.

On Saturday, the Vatican indicated that Francis experienced a “prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis,” following his admission for pneumonia.

While the pope “remain[ed] alert” on Saturday, his condition worsened compared to Friday, according to the Vatican.

Francis has also received blood transfusions after tests revealed a condition related to anemia, as reported by the AP. Medical professionals anticipate that he will continue to be hospitalized throughout the coming week.

Previously, the pope’s medical team stated on Friday that while his condition is not life-threatening, he is still “not out of danger.”

Important Statement

On Sunday, the Vatican shared an Angelus statement from Pope Francis, where he reflected on the approaching third anniversary of the war in Ukraine and expressed gratitude for the public’s supportive messages during his hospital stay, urging them to “pray for me.” He remarked, “I am confidently continuing my treatment at Gemelli Hospital; rest is also a crucial part of my recovery!” Pope Francis expressed heartfelt thanks to the doctors and healthcare staff for their diligent care and compassion towards him.

What to Anticipate

A more comprehensive update on Pope Francis’ condition is expected later on Sunday.

Understanding the Pope’s Health

Currently, Pope Francis is battling pneumonia in both lungs, alongside various infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal strains, as stated by his doctors. When necessary, doctors have provided him with supplemental oxygen and are implementing a drug therapy that he is reportedly responding well to. They have prescribed “absolute rest,” leading to the cancellation of several public events. While the primary concern for his health remains the possibility of sepsis, a severe condition that could occur as a complication of pneumonia, so far, Francis has not exhibited any signs of sepsis.

Context and Background

Pope Francis, age 88, has been leading the Catholic Church for 12 years since his election in 2013. He has been hospitalized multiple times in recent years, including a stay in July 2021 for a constricted large intestine and another hospitalization in 2023 due to bronchitis. He has a history of chronic bronchitis and respiratory difficulties.