Pope Francis remains in critical condition after suffering a severe asthmatic respiratory crisis, the Vatican announced on Saturday. Doctors had to administer high-flow oxygen to help him breathe.
Health Worsens Due to Pneumonia and Anemia
The 88-year-old pontiff has been hospitalized for a week with pneumonia and a complex lung infection. Moreover, recent tests revealed low platelet counts linked to anemia. As a result, he required blood transfusions.
Despite his struggles, the Vatican assured that he remains conscious. “The Holy Father continues to be alert and spent the day in an armchair although in more pain than yesterday. At the moment, the prognosis is reserved,” the statement confirmed.
Doctors Warn of Sepsis Risk
Although Pope Francis is responding to treatment, doctors remain cautious. They fear that sepsis, a life-threatening blood infection, could develop as a complication of pneumonia. Fortunately, as of Friday, there were no signs of sepsis.
Francis, who has chronic lung disease, was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14. Initially, he had been battling bronchitis for a week before his condition worsened. Soon after, doctors diagnosed a severe respiratory infection, including viral, bacterial, and fungal elements. Eventually, pneumonia spread to both lungs. To manage his condition, doctors prescribed complete rest, cortisone, antibiotics, and oxygen therapy.
Experts Explain the Danger of Sepsis
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine and surgery at Gemelli hospital, identified sepsis as the biggest threat. He explained that if bacteria from Francis’ lungs enter the bloodstream, it could lead to organ failure.
“Sepsis, with his respiratory problems and his age, would be really difficult to get out of,” Alfieri said at a press briefing. “The English say ‘knock on wood,’ we say ‘touch iron.’ Everyone touch what they want,” he joked while tapping the microphone. “But this is the real risk in these cases: that these germs pass to the bloodstream.”
“He knows he’s in danger,” Alfieri added. “And he told us to relay that.”
Vatican Dismisses Resignation Rumors
Meanwhile, speculation about Pope Francis’ resignation has been growing. However, the Vatican strongly denied any such plans.
Although Francis has previously stated that he wrote a resignation letter in case he ever becomes medically incapable, officials emphasized that he remains conscious, alert, and engaged in work.
Addressing the rumors, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, gave a rare interview to Corriere della Sera. He dismissed claims that high-ranking officials held secret meetings about Francis stepping down.
“On the other hand, I think it is quite normal that in these situations, uncontrolled rumors can spread or some misplaced comment is uttered. It is certainly not the first time it has happened,” Parolin said. “However, I don’t think there is any particular movement, and so far I haven’t heard anything like that.”
Vatican Continues Holy Year Celebrations
Despite the pope’s absence, the Vatican continues its scheduled events. This weekend, deacons gathered for the Holy Year celebrations. Francis, who was supposed to lead the Sunday Mass, will be replaced by the Holy Year organizer.
For the second consecutive weekend, Francis is expected to miss his traditional Sunday blessing. Although he could deliver it from the hospital, his health remains too fragile.
Still, many remain hopeful for his recovery. “Look, even though he’s not (physically) here, we know he’s here,” said Luis Arnaldo López Quirindongo, a deacon from Ponce, Puerto Rico. “He’s recovering, but he’s in our hearts and is accompanying us, because our prayers and his go together.”