Pope Francis’ health has deteriorated in the last 24 hours, the Vatican said in a statement on Saturday, adding that he suffered a “prolonged respiratory crisis similar to asthma” and needed blood transfusions.
“The Holy Father remains alert and spent the day in a chair, although he is more unwell than yesterday. At the moment, the prognosis remains reserved, ”said the Vatican.
Francisco was admitted to the Gemelli Hospital in Rome on February 14, after having difficulty breathing for several days. Since then, he has been diagnosed with double pneumonia.
The Vatican said on Saturday that doctors had to manage a “high flow” of oxygen because of their respiratory crisis.
He added that blood transfusions were necessary because the tests showed that he had a low platelet count associated with anemia.
“The condition of the Holy Father remains critical,” says the statement. “The Pope is not out of danger.”
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The Vatican announced at the beginning of the day that he would not appear in public on Sunday to lead the prayer with the pilgrims, the second consecutive week he will not attend the event.
The Vatican described the Pope’s infection as “complex”, saying that it is being caused by two or more microorganisms.
Asked by a journalist what is the biggest concern, doctors warned that there is a risk that respiratory tract germs enter their bloodstream, causing sepsis.
