Pope Francis, now 88, is receiving treatment in a Rome hospital, raising international worries for his health following a week-long hospitalization due to serious respiratory issues.
Pope Francis Remains in Critical Condition Amid Global Concern

Pope Francis Remains in Critical Condition Amid Global Concern
The Vatican updates that the pontiff had a peaceful night as he battles pneumonia and a complex infection.
Pope Francis spent a calm night at the Rome hospital where he has been in critical condition, contending with pneumonia and a severe infection, as officially stated by the Vatican on Sunday morning. The announcement was brief, simply noting, “The night passed quietly, the Pope rested,” but did not elaborate further amid growing global concerns for the pontiff's health.
Last Saturday, the Vatican revealed that the Pope suffered a significant “asthmatic respiratory crisis” requiring him to receive “high flows of oxygen” during the day, accompanied by a blood transfusion. Despite these challenges, the Vatican maintained that he remained alert. Regular updates have been issued in collaboration with the medical staff treating him at Policlinico Agostino Gemelli, where he has been hospitalized since February 14.
His admission was due to a respiratory tract infection that escalated into pneumonia affecting both lungs. Doctors have noted that adjusting his treatment involves intricate considerations, largely due to his age and pre-existing lung conditions. Speaking to reporters, surgeon Sergio Alfieri confirmed that for the first time, the pontiff's condition was characterized as critical, with the potential for daily fluctuations.
In response to the Pope's serious health status, prayer vigils have commenced worldwide, reflecting the deep concern felt across the globe. Cardinal Baldassare Reina announced a Mass at the Basilica of St. John Lateran on Sunday afternoon, dedicated to praying for the Pope’s recovery.
U.S. officials are also monitoring the situation, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noting that President Donald Trump had been briefed about the Pope’s health, stating, “We’re praying for the pope.” The community and the world alike continue to hold their breaths, hoping for the beloved leader’s recovery.
Last Saturday, the Vatican revealed that the Pope suffered a significant “asthmatic respiratory crisis” requiring him to receive “high flows of oxygen” during the day, accompanied by a blood transfusion. Despite these challenges, the Vatican maintained that he remained alert. Regular updates have been issued in collaboration with the medical staff treating him at Policlinico Agostino Gemelli, where he has been hospitalized since February 14.
His admission was due to a respiratory tract infection that escalated into pneumonia affecting both lungs. Doctors have noted that adjusting his treatment involves intricate considerations, largely due to his age and pre-existing lung conditions. Speaking to reporters, surgeon Sergio Alfieri confirmed that for the first time, the pontiff's condition was characterized as critical, with the potential for daily fluctuations.
In response to the Pope's serious health status, prayer vigils have commenced worldwide, reflecting the deep concern felt across the globe. Cardinal Baldassare Reina announced a Mass at the Basilica of St. John Lateran on Sunday afternoon, dedicated to praying for the Pope’s recovery.
U.S. officials are also monitoring the situation, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noting that President Donald Trump had been briefed about the Pope’s health, stating, “We’re praying for the pope.” The community and the world alike continue to hold their breaths, hoping for the beloved leader’s recovery.