Abdelrahman
Pope Francis’ Health Update: Critical Condition but Stable
Pope Francis is currently resting, though his condition remains classified as "critical" due to ongoing respiratory and kidney issues, according to the latest information from the Vatican. Over a week has passed since his hospitalization.
In a statement released on Monday morning, the Vatican reported that the Pope had a restful night and was able to sleep well. This follows an update from Sunday that indicated he was still receiving high-flow oxygen therapy and had undergone blood transfusions.
Recent blood tests revealed "initial, mild renal insufficiency," a kidney concern that is "currently under control," the report added. The Pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 after facing breathing difficulties for several days. Initially treated for bronchitis, he was later diagnosed with pneumonia affecting both lungs.
As of Sunday, the Pope’s thrombocytopenia—a condition characterized by a low platelet count—remained stable. He was able to participate in Holy Mass alongside his caregivers that morning, indicating some level of engagement despite his health challenges.
Due to the "complexity of the clinical picture," the Vatican did not provide a definite prognosis regarding the Pope’s recovery. The previous day, the Vatican had indicated that the Pope experienced a respiratory crisis but offered reassurance later on that he had not faced any additional respiratory emergencies.
Earlier on Sunday, the Pope released a message urging Catholics to pray for him as he has been unable to deliver the traditional Angelus prayer in person for two consecutive weeks.
Pope Francis is particularly vulnerable to pneumonia after suffering from pleurisy—a lung inflammation—in his youth, which led to the partial removal of one of his lungs. Throughout his 12-year papacy, he has been hospitalized multiple times, including a prior bronchitis treatment at the same hospital in March 2023.
Originally from Argentina, Pope Francis holds the distinction of being the first Latin American and the first Jesuit to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
