Vatican City — Pope Francis remains hospitalized in critical condition after suffering a “prolonged respiratory crisis” on Saturday, according to Vatican officials. The 88-year-old pontiff has been battling bilateral pneumonia since his admission to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14th. While doctors confirm he is alert and working from his hospital bed, they caution that his prognosis remains “guarded.”
Latest Medical Developments
The Holy See Press Office reported that Francis experienced an asthma-like episode on February 22nd, worsening his already fragile respiratory state. Medical teams are closely monitoring his oxygen levels and administering intravenous antibiotics. Despite the severity of his condition, Vatican sources note he has maintained his trademark humor, joking with nurses about “outrunning old age.”
Global Outpouring of Support
Religious and political leaders worldwide have rallied behind the ailing pope:
- Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I sent a handwritten letter urging Francis’ “swift recovery” to resume his “sacred duties”.
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres called Francis “indispensable for global peace,” emphasizing his unique role in bridging divides.
- Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited his bedside earlier this week, later stating he remained “spiritually resilient”.
Historical Context of Papal Health Crises
This hospitalization marks Francis’ most serious health challenge since his 2021 colon surgery. His decision to forgo traditional papal accommodations in favor of a Vatican guesthouse suite has drawn scrutiny during this emergency. Medical experts highlight that pneumonia poses heightened risks for octogenarians, particularly those with preexisting conditions like the pope’s partially removed lung.
What Comes Next?
The Vatican has canceled all papal engagements through March, including his weekly Angelus address. Canon law procedures for papal incapacitation remain inactive, with Cardinal Pietro Parolin temporarily managing routine affairs. Doctors anticipate at least another week of hospitalization before assessing rehabilitation needs.
