Pope Francis’ health in critical condition

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Pope Francis, the eighty-eight-year-old leader of the Roman Catholic Church, is currently in critical condition following a severe asthmatic respiratory crisis. The Vatican reported that this episode necessitated the administration of high-flow oxygen and blood transfusions due to anemia and low platelet counts. Despite being alert and spending time in an armchair, his prognosis remains guarded.

The Pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 after experiencing breathing difficulties. He was subsequently diagnosed with double pneumonia and a complex lung infection. Doctors have expressed concerns about the potential for sepsis, a serious bloodstream infection, though no evidence of it has been found thus far. Given his age and medical history, including the removal of part of his right lung in his youth, Pope Francis is particularly vulnerable to respiratory ailments.

In light of his hospitalisation, the Vatican has announced that Pope Francis will not lead Sunday prayers for the second consecutive week. This marks a significant deviation from his usual duties, as he has rarely missed public appearances due to health issues in the past. The global community has responded with an outpouring of support and prayers for the Pope’s recovery. Messages have come from various religious and political leaders, as well as from the faithful worldwide. The Vatican continues to provide updates on his condition as the situation develops.