Vatican City, February 23, 2025 – Pope Francis, hospitalized for over a week at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, suffered an asthma-like respiratory crisis requiring high-flow oxygen, Vatican News reported on Sunday. Despite his stable condition, doctors warn that he is not yet out of danger.
Pope Experiences Health Complications
On Saturday night, the Vatican stated that Pope Francis had a peaceful ninth night but continued to face health challenges. Sunday’s blood tests revealed thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) and anaemia, leading to blood transfusions.
Though alert and responsive, the 87-year-old Pontiff appeared more fatigued than the previous day and spent most of the time sitting in an armchair. Doctors maintain a guarded prognosis as they monitor his condition closely.
Doctors Address Concerns
During a Friday press conference, Dr. Sergio Alfieri and Dr. Luigi Carbone, overseeing the Pope’s treatment, stated that hospitalization would continue for at least another week. They emphasized that while he is not in immediate danger, he is not yet in the clear.
Dr. Alfieri clarified that Pope Francis is not on a ventilator but struggles with breathing and movement. Despite this, he remains in good spirits. When a doctor greeted him with, “Hello, Holy Father,” the Pope jokingly replied, “Hello, Holy Son.”
Risk of Sepsis a Major Concern
Doctors expressed fears of sepsis, a potential complication if bacteria from his respiratory tract enter his bloodstream. However, Dr. Alfieri remains optimistic that Pope Francis will eventually return to Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican, though his chronic respiratory issues will persist.
