Pope Francis in critical condition: Vatican updates on health struggles

Pope Francis has been struggling with his health after battling serious respiratory and kidney complications, according to an update from the Vatican. It has been almost a week since he was admitted.

Pope Francis’s current status

Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on 14 February after struggling with breathing difficulties for several days.

The BBC detailed what Pope Francis was dealing with. According to the publication, the Pope was later diagnosed with pneumonia in both of his lungs. This is what was announced by the Vatican and later reported by BBC.

More details about the Pope’s health?

The Vatican has released daily updates to inform the world of the Pope’s condition.

“The condition of the Holy Father remains critical, but since yesterday evening, he has not experienced any further respiratory crises. He received two units of concentrated red blood cells with beneficial effects, and his haemoglobin levels have risen.”

The statement assured people that Pope Francis is “alert and well-oriented.” However, the Vatican has also stated that blood tests showed some kidney problems. They were described as “an initial, mild, renal failure” that is “under control.” Therefore, the kidney problems aren’t as severe as people might think.

Pope’s ask for prayers

Alongside medical updates, Pope Francis has asked his followers for prayers. The Vatican provided the Pope’s message to his followers who have been worried about him since he was admitted.

In the message, the Pope said “Thank you for this closeness, and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world! I entrust you all to the intercession of Mary, and I ask you to pray for me.”

Indeed, people have been praying for the Pope since he was admitted.

People reacting to the Pope’s medical condition

People from all over the world have been reacting to the Pope’s medical condition. Many have sent Pope Francis well wishes as he recovers and has also lit candles for the Pope at a statue of Pope John Paul II near the hospital.

This isn’t the first time Pope Francis gets sick

The Pope has previously been hospitalised in 2023 because of bronchitis. He has also spent some time recovering from hernia surgery in the same year.

The Pope has also clarified that the Vatican must be honest about his health. This is why daily statements and updates are being released.

The Pope is improving

The good news is that there is some improvement, even if it’s not much. This is because Pope Francis managed to attend Mass on 23 February 2025, with the medical team overseeing his treatment.

He didn’t face any new episodes of asthmatic respiratory attacks, plus his laboratory tests have gotten better.

Sources familiar with the situation have told the CNN that the Pope is still capable of movement and is eating as he normally would. The same sources also confirmed that he isn’t bed-ridden. The global community continues to hope for his recovery.

What would you like to say to Pope Francis?

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