Pope Francis has been hospitalized in critical condition due to a serious respiratory crisis that requires significant medical intervention, raising alarm about the health of the 88-year-old pontiff.
Pope Francis Faces Life-Threatening Health Challenge Amid Respiratory Crisis

Pope Francis Faces Life-Threatening Health Challenge Amid Respiratory Crisis
Vatican Hospitalization Reveals Pope Francis in Critical Condition Following Severe Respiratory Issues
On Saturday night, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis is battling a severe respiratory crisis characterized as an “asthmatic respiratory crisis.” This medical situation has escalated since Friday, compelling medical staff to provide “high flows of oxygen” and a blood transfusion as his health faltered. Despite being alert and sitting up in an armchair, the pontiff is reported to be experiencing increased pain, and the Vatican warned that he remains in a precarious state—“not out of danger.”
The pope's health concerns commenced with a hospitalization on February 14 due to a respiratory tract infection, which, regrettably, progressed into pneumonia affecting both lungs. An alarming aspect of his condition includes low platelet counts linked to anemia, necessitating the recent blood transfusion to assist in his recovery.
Elisabetta Povoledo has reported on various developments for the Vatican and its cultural implications for over 35 years.