Pope Francis’ Condition Remains Critical Amid Double Pneumonia Battle

The Vatican has stated that Pope Francis remains in critical condition as he battles double pneumonia, Al Jazeera reports.

His prognosis is described as “guarded” due to the “complexity” of his clinical situation.

The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 after experiencing breathing difficulties and subsequently being diagnosed with pneumonia affecting both lungs.

An earlier Vatican update on Sunday indicated that the Pope had a “tranquil” night and rested following a respiratory crisis and blood transfusions.

On Saturday, the Vatican described the Pope’s condition as critical for the first time, revealing that he had required supplemental oxygen and blood transfusions following a “prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis.” The Vatican also described his prognosis as “reserved” at that time.

Double pneumonia is a serious infection that can cause inflammation and scarring in both lungs, impairing breathing. The Vatican has characterized the Pope’s infection as “complex,” indicating that it is caused by multiple microorganisms.

Pope Francis, who has led the Catholic Church since 2013, has faced various health challenges in recent years. He is particularly susceptible to lung infections due to a past bout of pleurisy that resulted in the removal of part of one lung during his youth.