The 88-year-old pontiff suffered a prolonged respiratory crisis resembling an asthma attack on Saturday, the Vatican reported.
Pope Francis is in critical condition after a severe respiratory episode caused by pneumonia and a lung infection, the Vatican announced on Saturday evening.
The pontiff, who has been hospitalized for over a week, was given oxygen to aid his breathing. He also received a blood transfusion due to low platelet levels, which are essential for blood clotting. The Vatican’s statement specified that on Saturday, he experienced a serious respiratory crisis requiring high-flow oxygen therapy. His condition remains critical.
Francis, who had part of his lung removed in his youth, was admitted earlier this month to a special ward at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital due to a respiratory infection. As a result, he has been forced to cancel public appearances.
On Saturday, medical tests revealed anemia and a low platelet count, necessitating a blood transfusion.
Despite his serious condition, the pope remains conscious, but his prognosis remains uncertain, the Vatican noted.
