The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis is critically ill due to severe breathing problems.
The 88-year-old Pope’s condition became worse on Saturday night. He experienced what the Vatican described as a long “asthmatic respiratory crisis” that required large amounts of oxygen. He also needed a blood transfusion.
This update suggests the Pope’s health has gotten worse since Friday evening when he was reported to be responding to treatment. The Vatican made their concern clear, stating: “The pope is not out of danger.
Pope Francis’ health troubles began on 14 February when he was taken to hospital with a chest infection. This infection then developed into pneumonia, affecting both of his lungs.
While the situation is serious, the Vatican reported that the Pope remains conscious and can sit up in an armchair, though they noted he was experiencing more pain than the previous day.
The blood transfusion was given because medical tests showed he had low platelet levels, which indicated anaemia.
