The Vatican on Saturday said that Pope Francis’s condition continues to be “critical” after suffering a “prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis.”
The pontiff is “more unwell than yesterday” and had received blood transfusions, BBC reports, citing a statement from the Vatican.
The Vatican said the 88-year-old was alert and in his armchair but required a “high flow” of oxygen, and his prognosis “remains guarded.”.
The Pope has been undergoing medical treatment for pneumonia in both lungs at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome.
Accordingly, the blood transfusions were deemed necessary due to a low platelet count, associated with anaemia, the Vatican said.
“The Holy Father’s condition remains critical,” a statement said, adding, “The Pope is not out of danger.”
“The Holy Father continues to be alert and spent the day in an armchair even if he was suffering more than yesterday,” the statement hinted.
Recall that the Pope’s health has been a subject of concern among faithfuls in the last months.
Well-wishers have been leaving candles, flowers, and letters for the Pope outside Rome’s Gemelli hospital all week.
