Health Scare For Pope Francis As Vatican Reports Critical Condition

Rome: Pope Francis remains in critical condition after suffering a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis, the Vatican announced on Saturday. The 86-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalised for a week with a complex lung infection, required high flows of oxygen to stabilise his condition. According to the Vatican, Francis also underwent blood transfusions after medical tests revealed a condition associated with anaemia. The statement added that the Pope remained alert and spent the day in an armchair, albeit in greater pain than the previous day.

"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 Vatican statement said.

The pope has been receiving treatment at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome since March 29, where he was admitted for bronchitis. His condition worsened over the past week, prompting concerns about his health.

The Vatican has been providing regular updates on the Pope's condition, and the latest statement has sparked worries among Catholics and well-wishers worldwide.

Pope Francis remains hospitalised due to pneumonia and a complex respiratory infection, with doctors warning of potential complications, particularly sepsis, a blood infection that can occur as a result of pneumonia.

Although there's currently no evidence of sepsis, Dr Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine and surgery at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, explained the risks associated with the Pope's age and respiratory issues. "Sepsis, with his respiratory problems and his age, would be really difficult to get out of," Alfieri notes.

The Pope's personal physician, Dr Luigi Carbone, also expresses concern, stating, "He is not out of danger... like all fragile patients, I say they are always on the golden scale: In other words, it takes very little to become unbalanced."

Despite the Pope's absence, the Vatican continues with its Holy Year celebrations. The Pope's condition remains a concern, and his hospitalisation is expected to last at least another week.

Pope Francis, who has been Pope since 2013, has been open about his health issues in the past. He has undergone several surgeries, including an operation to remove part of his colon in 2021.

The Pope's health has been a subject of concern in recent years, with many speculating about his potential resignation. However, Francis has shown remarkable resilience and continues to lead the Catholic Church with determination.

As the Pope remains in critical condition, the Vatican has urged Catholics and well-wishers to pray for his recovery.