VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis spent a peaceful ninth night at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he is being treated for double pneumonia. The Vatican Press Office provided an update on Sunday, confirming that his condition remains critical but stable.
Doctors reported an asthma-like respiratory crisis on Saturday morning, requiring high-flow oxygen administration. Blood tests also indicated thrombocytopenia and anemia, leading to blood transfusions.
Medical Update
Despite the challenges, Pope Francis remains alert and spent Saturday in an armchair, though more fatigued than the previous day. Doctors continue monitoring his progress closely.
During a press conference, Dr. Sergio Alfieri and Dr. Luigi Carbone stated that the Pope would remain hospitalized for at least another week. While he is not in immediate danger, his condition requires continued observation.
Health Concerns
Dr. Alfieri confirmed that Pope Francis is not on a ventilator but still struggles with breathing. Limited physical movement is advised to prevent further complications.
A major concern is the possibility of germs from his respiratory tract entering the bloodstream, which could lead to sepsis. However, doctors remain hopeful about his eventual recovery.
Positive Signs
Despite his illness, Pope Francis continues working, sitting upright, and engaging with staff. He even joked with a doctor who greeted him by saying, “Hello, Holy Father,” to which he replied, “Hello, Holy Son.”
Dr. Alfieri emphasized that although the Pope will eventually return to Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican, his chronic respiratory issues will persist.
For now, medical staff are carefully monitoring his recovery, ensuring he receives the necessary treatment to regain strength.
