Pope Francis in Critical Condition After Severe Respiratory Crisis, Vatican Confirms

Pope Francis is in a critical condition after he suffered a long asthmatic respiratory crisis that required high flows of oxygen, the Vatican has said

Pope Francis remains in critical condition after suffering a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis while being treated for pneumonia and a complex lung infection, the Vatican announced Saturday.

The 88-year-old pontiff, who remains conscious, is receiving high-flow oxygen therapy and blood transfusions due to low platelet counts, a condition that can impair clotting. Doctors warn that sepsis remains the greatest risk given his age, fragility, and pre-existing lung disease.

“The Holy Father’s condition continues to be critical … the pope is not out of danger,” the Vatican’s latest statement read.

Francis was hospitalized on February 14 after his bronchitis worsened into pneumonia, requiring cortisone, antibiotics, and supplemental oxygen. His medical team has revealed that this is the first time the Vatican has described the episode as an “asthmatic respiratory crisis of prolonged magnitude.”

Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine and surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, reiterated Friday that the main concern is that the infection could spread into the bloodstream, leading to sepsis, a potentially fatal condition.

“Sepsis, with his respiratory problems and his age, would be really difficult to get out of,” Alfieri warned, adding that Francis understands the gravity of his condition.

Meanwhile, Vatican officials have been working to dispel rumors of a potential papal resignation due to Francis' condition. While the pope has previously stated that he has written a resignation letter for use if he ever became medically incapacitated, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin dismissed speculation, calling it “useless” at this time.

Francis, while weak, remains fully conscious, alert, eating, and working, according to the Vatican.

This weekend, he was scheduled to celebrate deacons during the Vatican’s Holy Year events, but in his absence, the Holy Year organizer will lead Sunday’s Mass. For the second consecutive weekend, the pope will also skip his traditional Sunday noon blessing.

Despite his absence, Vatican visitors remain hopeful.

“Even though he’s not here, we know he’s with us,” said Luis Arnaldo López Quirindongo, a deacon from Puerto Rico attending the Holy Year celebrations. “He’s recovering, but he’s in our hearts.”