Pope Francis’s condition has worsened, Vatican says

Pope Francis’s condition “continues to be critical”, the Vatican has said, saying the 88-year-old was alert but had suffered a respiratory attack that required “high-flow oxygen”, and also blood transfusions.

“At the moment the prognosis is reserved,” it said, as the head of the Catholic Church prepared to spend his ninth night in Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where he was diagnosed this week with double pneumonia.

“The Holy Father’s condition continues to be critical, therefore, as explained yesterday, the pope is not out of danger,” the Vatican said in its regular early evening update.

“This morning Pope Francis presented a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis, which also required the application of high-flow oxygen,” it said.

Daily blood tests “showed thrombocytopenia, associated with anaemia, which required the administration of blood transfusions”, it added.

“The Holy Father continues to be alert and spent the day in an armchair even if he was suffering more than yesterday.”

The Vatican earlier confirmed the Argentine pontiff would not deliver his usual weekly Angelus prayer tomorrow, saying the text would be published, as it was last weekend.

Francis has been head of the Catholic Church since 2013 but has suffered numerous health issues in recent years, and underwent major surgery in 2021 and 2023.

This latest hospitalisation has cast doubt over his ability to continue as leader of world’s almost 1.4 billion Catholics, fuelling speculation over his potential resignation, and who might take over.

Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin told Italy’s Corriere della Sera daily that such discussion was normal but said he would not enter into “useless speculation”.

“Now we are thinking about the health of the Holy Father, his recovery, his return to the Vatican: these are the only things that matter,” the cardinal said.

A group of nuns and priests from around the world gathered outside the entrance to the Gemelli hospital, where Francis is staying in a special papal suite on the 10th floor, to pray for him.

“We are praying today for the Holy Father, Pope Francis, and our hope is that he will recover well in the Grace of God,” Brazilian priest Don Wellison said.

Francis has been moving between his bed, a chair and an adjacent chapel where he prays and has also been doing some work, the Vatican says.

Professor Sergio Alfieri, who leads the pope’s medical team at the Gemalli, said yesterday the pontiff’s condition has been slightly improving, allowing doctors to incrementally lower the amount of medication he is taking.

However, he made clear then that the situation was very serious, noting the pontiff’s age and general condition of health.

“Is the pope out of danger? No, the pope is not out of danger,” Mr Alfieri said, but added: “If you then ask whether he is in danger of dying at this moment, the answer is still no.”

Francis has said the papacy is a job for life but has also left the door open to resigning like his predecessor Benedict XVI.

He has often joked about the scheming his health woes inevitably prompt, particularly among those who oppose his attempts at reform.

After undergoing colon surgery in 2021, he joked that “they were preparing the conclave”, the meeting of cardinals to elect a new pope following a death or resignation.

Italian Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi told the Corriere on Friday he did not rule out Francis stepping down.

But Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, who leads the Holy See’s powerful Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, said he had heard no particular manoeuvring this time.

“I don’t see a pre-conclave environment, I don’t see more conversations on a potential successor than there were a year ago,” he told Argentina’s La Nacion daily.

“So far I perceive a lot of respect.”

The pope maintains a punishing work schedule, and in September made a 12-day tour to the Asia-Pacific.

However, he has suffered increasing health issues, from his colon surgery to a hernia operation in 2023.

He is also overweight and suffers constant hip and knee pain, which force him to use a wheelchair most of the time.

How does Pope Francis’ resilience and work ethic factor into his recovery?

Exclusive Interview: Vatican’s Latest Update on Pope Francis’ Health

Dr.Laura Rossi, Vatican Medical Advisor, Speaks Out

archyde News recently caught up wiht Dr.Laura Rossi, a renowned medical advisor to the Vatican, to discuss the latest updates on Pope Francis’ health. here’s what she had to say:

Pope Francis’ Condition: Critical but Stable

Archyde News (AN): Dr. rossi, can you give us an update on Pope francis’ health condition?

Dr. Laura rossi (LR): The Holy Father’s condition continues to be critical, but stable. he’s alert and responsive, which is a positive sign. However, he’s still requiring high-flow oxygen and blood transfusions due to thrombocytopenia and anemia.

Respiratory Crisis and double Pneumonia

AN: We’ve heard about a respiratory crisis he experienced. Can you elaborate on that?

LR: Yes, Pope Francis suffered a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis that required immediate attention. It’s crucial to note that he’s also been diagnosed with double pneumonia, which is contributing to his respiratory difficulties.

Prognosis and Recovery Timeline

AN: What’s the prognosis, and can you give us an idea of the recovery timeline?

LR: The prognosis is still reserved at this point. Recovery from double pneumonia and managing respiratory issues in an 88-year-old individual takes time. We’re taking it day by day, ensuring he receives the best possible care.

Speculation on Papal Succession

AN: The Pope’s health issues have sparked discussions about succession. As a medical professional, what’s your viewpoint on this?

LR: It’s natural for people to discuss succession, especially given the Pope’s age and health concerns. Though, our focus right now is solely on the holy Father’s recovery.The College of Cardinals will handle succession matters when the time comes.

Pope Francis’ Resilience and Work ethic

AN: Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis has maintained a rigorous work schedule. how does his resilience factor into his recovery?

LR: The Pope’s resilience and strong will are indeed remarkable. However, it’s crucial for him to rest and prioritize his health during this critical period. His recovery will depend largely on his ability to do so.

Your Thoughts

What are your thoughts and well-wishes for Pope francis during this challenging time? Share your comments below.

Stay tuned to Archyde News for more updates on Pope Francis’ health.