Pope Francis in Critical Condition After Respiratory Crisis

Candles and pictures of Pope Francis seen outside the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, on Sunday, where the Pontiff is hospitalised since Feb. 14. Image: AP.

(The Post News)– The Vatican stated early Sunday morning that Pope Francis, who has been in the hospital for more than a week, is apparently sleeping soundly following a respiratory crisis on Saturday. Although no additional information regarding the pontiff’s condition was provided, a brief statement from the Holy See Press Office stated that he enjoyed a restful night.

According to the statement, the “asthmatic respiratory crisis” led to the application of high-flow oxygen. The pope, who is being treated for pneumonia, is also receiving blood transfusions to address anemia. Despite the severity of his illness, the Vatican said Pope Francis remains alert and spent part of the day sitting in an armchair. However, the statement noted that his pain had increased compared to the previous day.

Pope Francis will not deliver the weekly Angelus prayer on Sunday, marking only the third time in his nearly 12-year papacy that he has missed this ritual. On Thursday, the Vatican reported that his response to treatment had been “positive,” raising hopes for his recovery. However, Vatican doctors emphasised that the pope’s recovery will take time.

The pope, who was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome on February 14, was initially treated for a respiratory infection before being diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. His medical history, including a previous bout with severe pneumonia in his youth, has made him more vulnerable to respiratory infections. The pope had previously been hospitalized for pneumonia and had surgery for diverticulitis in 2021.

Despite his health issues, Pope Francis has shown tenacity by continuing to participate in his activities. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said the pope has maintained communication with important people, notably by calling religious leaders in Gaza City every day. He has also continued to sign off on official matters, though visits have been limited to his closest collaborators.

On Wednesday, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited the pope at the hospital for a brief 20-minute meeting, during which she described the pope as having “his proverbial sense of humour.” Pope Francis’ illness has drawn widespread concern and solidarity, with prayers for his recovery being offered by followers around the world.