Pope Francis' health has worsened, with the Vatican describing his condition as "critical" for the first time. He has received supplemental oxygen and blood transfusions.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalized for a week with a complex lung infection, also received blood transfusions after tests revealed an anemia-related condition.
Doctors reported that Francis has been battling pneumonia along with a multifaceted respiratory infection, conditions that are expected to keep him in the hospital for at least another week. In a recent update, his personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, noted that while the pope is alert - spending part of his day in an armchair - he is experiencing more pain than the previous day, and his overall prognosis remains reserved.
The primary concern for Francis, who has a history of chronic lung disease, is the potential onset of sepsis - a serious complication that can occur when infections spread to the bloodstream. Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine and surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, explained that if pathogens from his respiratory system were to enter the bloodstream, the results could be life-threatening, particularly given the pope’s advanced age and existing respiratory issues.
Francis was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on February 14 following a weeklong bout of bronchitis that worsened into a complex viral, bacterial, and fungal respiratory infection, subsequently developing into pneumonia in both lungs. His treatment has included a regimen of cortisone and antibiotics, along with supplemental oxygen as needed, with his medical team stressing the importance of “absolute rest.”
Despite his critical condition, updates have noted that Francis slept well overnight, and his medical team continues to monitor him closely. His personal physician warned that even minor setbacks could have significant implications for his fragile health, emphasizing that “it takes very little to become unbalanced.”
Meanwhile, Vatican celebrations associated with the Holy Year proceeded without the pope’s physical presence. Deacons gathered for special Jubilee events, with one deacon from Puerto Rico remarking, “Even though he’s not physically here, we know he’s here. He’s recovering and is in our hearts.”
As the pope’s recovery remains uncertain, Vatican officials and his medical team continue to provide regular updates, while prayers and support for his recovery are being offered from around the world.
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