Pope's condition remains critical - Vatican
Photo: Pope Francis (Getty Images)
Pope Francis' condition remains critical but stable. He is in the hospital with bilateral pneumonia, according to the Vatican News.
“The Holy Father's clinical condition remains critical but stable. There have been no acute respiratory episodes, and hemodynamic parameters continue to be stable,” the Vatican said.
They also said that on the evening of February 25, the pontiff underwent a routine computed tomography scan for radiological monitoring of bilateral pneumonia. The prognosis “remains cautious”.
Pope Francis' illness
It was reported on February 14 that Pope Francis was hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties for several days. Initially, he was treated for bronchitis, but later diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia.
Media outlets reported that the pontiff is particularly susceptible to lung infections (pneumonia), which may be caused by viruses. This is allegedly due to a past history of pleurisy (lung inflammation) and partial lung removal surgery in his youth.
In his 12 years as pope, Pope Francis has been hospitalized multiple times. Notably, in March 2023, he received treatment for bronchitis at the same hospital.
On February 22, the Vatican press office announced that Pope Francis had experienced a respiratory crisis and required high-flow oxygen.
Additionally, his blood tests showed initial mild renal insufficiency – a kidney issue that was under control.
