Pope Francis is currently in a “critical” condition, as confirmed by a statement from the Vatican on Sunday. However, the pontiff has not experienced any further respiratory crises recently. He continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy and has undergone necessary blood transfusions.
Kidney health and overall condition updates
The latest blood tests have revealed that Pope Francis is dealing with “initial, mild, renal insufficiency”, which is a kidney-related issue; nonetheless, it is reported to be “currently under control”. The Vatican emphasized that the Pope remains “alert and well oriented” during this challenging time.
The Pope was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome on February 14 after suffering from breathing difficulties for several days. Initially treated for bronchitis, he was later diagnosed with pneumonia affecting both lungs.
Recent activities and prayer requests
On Sunday morning, the pontiff participated in the Holy Mass alongside his caregivers, demonstrating his resilience despite health challenges. The Vatican noted that his condition of thrombocytopenia, characterized by an abnormally low platelet count in the blood, is stable.
“We ask Catholics to pray for him,”
the Pope urged in a statement after being unable to deliver the traditional Angelus prayer in person for the second consecutive week. His susceptibility to pneumonia stems from a history of pleurisy, an inflammation of the lungs, which led to a partial lung removal during his youth.
Pope Francis, originally from Argentina, holds the distinction of being the first Latin American and the first Jesuit to head the Roman Catholic Church. Throughout his 12-year papacy, he has faced multiple hospitalizations, including a recent treatment for bronchitis earlier this year.