Abdelrahman
Latest Update on Pope Francis’ Health
The Vatican confirmed on Sunday that Pope Francis remains in critical condition but has not experienced any additional respiratory emergencies. The 88-year-old pontiff has been hospitalized for a lung infection for over a week, as reported on Saturday.
Pope Francis has been admitted to the hospital due to lung infection. (Photo by Simone Padovani/Getty … [+]
Essential Details
According to the Vatican’s update on Sunday evening, Pope Francis continues to be in critical condition but has not faced any new health crises. This announcement followed a report on Saturday regarding a “long asthmatic respiratory distress” that occurred shortly after he was admitted for pneumonia.
The Vatican had earlier noted that “the night passed without incident” and that “the pope was able to rest.” Citing the Associated Press, the pope is conscious and undergoing various medical evaluations.
Pope Francis is still receiving supplemental oxygen, and tests indicated “initial, mild” kidney failure. However, the Vatican assured that the situation is being managed, and the pope remains alert and “well-oriented,” according to sources from the AP.
The Vatican described the pope’s “prognosis as reserved.” Citing the AP, they refrained from making any specific predictions regarding his recovery due to the complex clinical situation and the need for time to assess the effectiveness of treatment.
In addition, Pope Francis has received blood transfusions after tests revealed a condition linked to anemia, with doctors expect him to stay in the hospital for at least another week.
While the pope is not in imminent danger according to his medical team, they caution that he still faces risks and is “not out of danger.”
Important Statement
On Sunday, the Vatican shared an Angelus statement from Pope Francis reflecting on the upcoming third anniversary of the war in Ukraine. He expressed gratitude for the well-wishes he received during his hospitalization and requested continued prayers from the public. “I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, where I am receiving necessary treatments. Rest is also essential to my recovery!” Pope Francis stated, according to the Vatican’s translation. “I extend my heartfelt thanks to the doctors and healthcare professionals for their care and commitment to serving the sick.”
Overview of the Pope’s Medical Condition
Pope Francis has been diagnosed with pneumonia affecting both lungs, compounded by bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, as reported by his doctors. His medical team is providing supplemental oxygen as needed and administering a therapeutic regimen that they believe is eliciting a positive response. Additionally, doctors have recommended “absolute rest” for the pope, leading to the cancellation of several public engagements. They have identified the risk of sepsis—a serious complication related to pneumonia—as the primary concern, though thus far, the pope has shown no symptoms of this condition.
Background Information
At 88 years old, Pope Francis has been leading the Catholic Church since his election in 2013. He has experienced multiple hospitalizations over recent years, including one for intestinal narrowing in July 2021 and another for bronchitis in 2023. The pope has a history of chronic bronchitis and respiratory challenges.
Additional Resources
Pope Francis remains at risk but is stable, according to his medical team (Associated Press)
