Pope Francis’ health took a turn for the worse on Saturday night, with the Vatican confirming that his condition had become more complicated since the previous update on Friday evening. The 88-year-old pontiff was in critical condition after suffering a severe “asthmatic respiratory crisis” earlier in the day. His treatment included high-flow oxygen therapy and a blood transfusion, raising concerns about his recovery.
“The pope is not out of danger,” the Vatican stated on Saturday evening.
With Francis now in his second week of hospitalization, speculation has grown about his future—whether he will recover, face further decline, or possibly resign due to his health struggles. Some cardinals have even begun discussing the possibility of him stepping down, similar to his predecessor, Benedict XVI, who resigned in 2013.
Should Francis resign or pass away, the Catholic Church would convene a conclave to elect a new pope.
In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, dismissed speculation, emphasizing that the only priority was the pope’s health and recovery.
Francis was admitted to the hospital on February 14 with a respiratory tract infection, which later developed into pneumonia affecting both lungs. His medical history includes the removal of part of a lung when he was younger, which has made him particularly vulnerable to respiratory illnesses.
Despite his worsening condition, the Vatican reported that Francis was alert and sitting up in an armchair, although he was experiencing more pain than the previous day. The blood transfusion was necessary due to low platelet counts linked to anemia.
His doctors confirmed on Friday that he remains in critical condition and will need to stay in the hospital for at least another week. His surgeon, Dr. Sergio Alfieri, said the pope understands the seriousness of his condition, acknowledging that “all doors are open.”
Speaking to reporters outside Rome’s Policlinico Agostino Gemelli hospital, where Francis is being treated, Dr. Alfieri described the challenge of balancing his treatment, as the pope is battling both pneumonia and a complex infection. His Vatican physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, warned that given Francis’ fragile health, even a minor issue could become serious.
Doctors also confirmed that the pope is intermittently using oxygen to aid his breathing.
This marks Francis’ fourth stay at the Gemelli hospital. In 2021, he underwent colon surgery, and in 2023, he was admitted twice—once for a respiratory infection and later for abdominal hernia surgery. Despite these past health issues, his doctors say his heart remains strong.
During the winter months, Francis has frequently suffered from bouts of flu and bronchitis. He also deals with knee problems and sciatica, often relying on a wheelchair, walker, or cane to move around.
