Pope Francis Remains in Critical Condition with Complex Lung Infection
Rome, Italy – Pope Francis was conscious but still receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen Sunday, as he remains in critical condition with a complex lung infection, the Vatican said. The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to Gemelli hospital on February 14 after a week-long bout of bronchitis worsened, and has since developed a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis.
The Vatican announced on Saturday that Francis was in critical condition, with doctors warning that the main threat facing the pope is the onset of sepsis, a serious infection of the blood that can occur as a complication of pneumonia. As of Friday, there was no evidence of any sepsis, and Francis was responding to the various drugs he is taking, his medical team said in their first in-depth update on his condition.
A Grim Prognosis
Doctors have said Francis’ condition is touch-and-go, given his age, fragility, and pre-existing lung disease. His condition has revived speculation about what might happen if he becomes unconscious or otherwise incapacitated, and whether he might resign. The Vatican hierarchy has gone on the defensive to tamp down rumors and speculation that Francis might decide to resign, with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, calling such speculation "useless" and emphasizing the importance of the pope’s health and recovery.
The Pope’s Condition
Francis’ condition has been the subject of intense media scrutiny, with the Vatican providing regular updates on his health. On Saturday, doctors said the pope was in critical condition, with a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis, and was receiving high flows of oxygen to help him breathe. He also received blood transfusions after tests showed low counts of platelets, which are needed for clotting.
A Complex Respiratory Tract Infection
The pope was admitted to hospital on February 14 after a week-long bout of bronchitis worsened. Doctors diagnosed a complex viral, bacterial, and fungal respiratory tract infection, and later the onset of pneumonia in both lungs. They prescribed "absolute rest" and a combination of cortisone and antibiotics, along with supplemental oxygen when he needs it.
Prayers for the Pope
On Sunday, Archbishop Rino Fisichella, the organizer of the Holy Year, celebrated Mass in Francis’ place and offered a special prayer for the pope from the altar. "Even though he is in a hospital bed, we feel Pope Francis close to us, we feel him present among us," Fisichella told the hundreds of white-robed deacons. "And this compels us to make even stronger and more intense our prayer that the Lord will assist him in his time of trial and illness."
Conclusion
The situation surrounding Pope Francis’ health is a grave concern for the global Catholic community, and the Vatican has worked to provide regular updates on his condition. While the prognosis is grim, the pope’s medical team is working tirelessly to treat his complex lung infection and ensure his recovery. As the situation continues to unfold, the world waits with bated breath for news of the pope’s progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the prognosis for Pope Francis’ condition?
A: Doctors have said that the main threat facing the pope is the onset of sepsis, a serious infection of the blood that can occur as a complication of pneumonia.
Q: What is the Vatican’s stance on speculation about Pope Francis’ resignation?
A: The Vatican hierarchy has gone on the defensive to tamp down rumors and speculation that Francis might decide to resign, with Cardinal Pietro Parolin calling such speculation "useless" and emphasizing the importance of the pope’s health and recovery.
Q: What is the current state of Pope Francis’ health?
A: The pope is conscious but still receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen, and is in critical condition with a complex lung infection.
