Pope Francis' Health Update: Critical Condition with Slight Improvement
Pope Francis, currently hospitalized with pneumonia and mild kidney failure, remains in critical condition despite a slight improvement reported by the Vatican on Monday. The 88-year-old pontiff has not experienced any further asthma-style attacks, and some laboratory results have shown improvement, according to a statement released by the Vatican. The mild renal insufficiency diagnosed over the weekend is not of significant concern at this time, while oxygen therapy continues. However, the prognosis for the pope remains guarded.
The pope, who has been able to maintain a normal eating schedule, received a video message from the Holy Family church in Gaza on Monday. This interaction has been a part of his daily routine since October 9, 2023. He was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14, where he was diagnosed with a respiratory tract infection, pneumonia affecting both lungs, and mild renal insufficiency.
The Vatican’s evening statement indicated that the pope is receiving high-flow oxygen therapy through a nasal cannula, and he remains vigilant and oriented during his recovery. However, the world’s media has converged at St. Peter's Square, where large electronic billboards display prayers for the pope's health scheduled for Monday night, an event to be led by Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state.
Despite showing signs of recovery earlier in the week, the pope was given supplemental oxygen and blood transfusions due to a low platelet count after a prolonged asthma attack that raised concern among his medical team. On Friday, doctors cautioned that the pope was still not out of danger and would remain hospitalized for at least another week. The primary concern for the pope is the risk of sepsis, a severe blood infection that can develop as a complication of pneumonia.
Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine and surgery at Gemelli hospital, emphasized that the pope is under a considerable medication load, and he would not be discharged until he is no longer in danger. Alfieri underlined the importance of focusing on the pope's recovery, noting, "The pope is not a person who gives up," and revealed that Francis is aware of his precarious situation and has instructed the staff to communicate that.
In a message published in place of his typical Sunday Angelus prayer, which he normally delivers from the window overlooking St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis expressed gratitude toward his medical team. "I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment, and rest is also part of the therapy," he said.
Vigils have been organized outside the Gemelli hospital, a preferred facility for pontiffs, and well-wishers have gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Visitors expressing their concern included Stanley from El Salvador, who remarked, "I’m sorry Pope Francis is not well. He’s a good person and very lovable." Pierre from France commented on the seriousness of the pope’s age, stating, "He’s 88, so would be at risk, but I hope he gets through this. I think he’s a good pope who has been fairly modern." Jim from the United States expressed his view that the pontiff is among the most important leaders globally, saying, "In my view, he is probably the most important leader; we need him, and I really hope that he lives."
Despite increasing health concerns, Pope Francis has maintained a rigorous work schedule, particularly important as the Catholic jubilee year continues. Last September, he undertook an extensive 12-day tour across the Asia Pacific, one of the few regions in the world where the Catholic Church is witnessing growth in baptized members and religious vocations.
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