Pope Francis’s health took a grave turn on Saturday, with the Vatican reporting that the 88-year-old pontiff suffered a severe respiratory crisis and required blood transfusions, underscoring the precarious state of his condition. The Holy See Press Office, in a somber evening update, described the pope’s situation as “critical,” cautioning that he is “not out of danger” despite remaining alert.
The statement detailed a morning episode characterized as an “asthma-like respiratory crisis of prolonged intensity,” necessitating high-flow oxygen to stabilize the pope. Blood tests further revealed thrombocytopenia—a low platelet count—coupled with anemia, prompting transfusions to address the dual complications. While the pontiff spent the day seated in an armchair, aides noted he appeared “more uncomfortable” than on Friday, when Vatican officials first signaled concern over his worsening health.
“The Holy Father remains alert,” the press office said, offering a sliver of reassurance amid an otherwise guarded prognosis. The update, echoing Friday’s warning of a critical phase, reflects the Vatican’s careful messaging as global attention fixes on Francis, the first Latin American pope, whose tenure has been marked by progressive reforms and persistent health challenges.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, has faced respiratory issues before, including a bout of pneumonia in 2023 that curtailed his schedule. This latest crisis, however, appears more severe, blending pulmonary distress with blood-related complications—a combination that medical experts outside the Vatican called “concerning” for a man of his age. The pope’s resilience has long been a hallmark of his papacy, but Saturday’s report suggests a fragile balance.
The Vatican offered no timeline for recovery, leaving the faithful and world leaders in a state of quiet anticipation. In St. Peter’s Square, pilgrims gathered under overcast skies, some clutching rosaries as news trickled out. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, declined to comment beyond affirming that “prayers are with His Holiness.”