Pope Francis, at the age of 88, has been admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14 due to a respiratory tract infection that he had been battling for some time. This infection worsened and evolved into pneumonia affecting both lungs. Additionally, there has been an initial, minor issue with his kidney function, as reported by the Vatican.

As per the Vatican, Francis is currently in a critical condition and is receiving treatment for the double pneumonia. The infection, affecting the lungs, occurs when the alveoli (small air sacs) fill with pus and fluid, making breathing difficult and reducing oxygen absorption.

Blood tests conducted on Sunday highlighted mild indications of kidney failure; however, the Vatican stated that this situation is currently under control, referring to the kidneys’ role in filtering waste from the blood. Francis has also developed anemia and underwent blood transfusions on Saturday, during which he received hematin, a treatment to boost haemoglobin levels, thereby improving oxygen transport in the blood.

Despite these challenges, the Pope remains alert and responsive. He attended Mass in his hospital apartment on Sunday, according to the Vatican, though he is still receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen following a respiratory crisis on Saturday night. The complexity of his clinical condition and the need for feedback from drug therapies mean that the prognosis remains uncertain, as stated by his doctors.

This is the third instance in his nearly 12-year papacy that he has not been able to deliver the weekly Angelus prayer.

Regarding the severity of his condition, Francis has a history of lung problems, having had part of a lung removed in his youth. His advanced age and existing health conditions make this infection particularly concerning. Doctors have cautioned about the risk of sepsis, a severe blood infection that can develop from pneumonia, although there has been no mention of it in the Vatican’s updates. This hospitalization is the longest for Francis since becoming pope in March 2013.

Sergio Alfieri, a surgeon on Francis’s medical team, acknowledged the Pope’s fragility, stating that Francis is conscious of the precarious state of his health. This hospitalization has led to the cancellation or postponement of his public engagements, with Catholics around the world offering prayers for his recovery.

Pope Francis has faced various health challenges over the years, including lung and respiratory issues, falls, and surgeries for colon and abdomen conditions. Additionally, he suffers from back and knee pain, requiring the use of a wheelchair or cane.

The Vatican has responded by canceling his public engagements and encouraging global prayer vigils for his recovery. The Pope has continued his duties during his hospitalization, including making bishop appointments and maintaining contact with clergy in Gaza.

While there have been discussions about the possibility of Francis considering resignation due to health concerns, the Vatican has not confirmed these reports. Francis has already prepared a resignation letter in case of medical incapacitation, following the precedent set by his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned due to declining health at age 85. Despite his current condition, Francis remains active in his pastoral duties and communicates regularly with his global flock.

Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/2/24/pope-francis-health-a-timeline-and-what-we-know-so-far?traffic_source=rss