Sat Feb 22 18:35:06 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis’ Condition Remains Critical After Respiratory Crisis and Blood Transfusions
**ROME** – Pope Francis’s health remains critical, the Vatican announced Saturday evening. While the 88-year-old pontiff remains alert, he experienced a prolonged respiratory crisis requiring high-flow oxygen and blood transfusions due to anemia and low platelet count (thrombocytopenia).
The Vatican’s statement, a follow-up to Friday’s press conference, confirmed that the Pope, hospitalized since February 14th with bronchitis which developed into pneumonia, is not yet out of danger. Although he spent the day in an armchair, his condition is reportedly more serious than on Friday. Doctors are maintaining a reserved prognosis.
The respiratory crisis, described as an asthmatic attack, necessitated the administration of high-flow oxygen. Further complicating matters, blood tests revealed anemia and thrombocytopenia, leading to the need for blood transfusions. Despite these setbacks, the Vatican emphasized that the Pope remains conscious.
The Pope’s initial hospitalization for bronchitis sparked widespread concern, culminating in Friday’s press conference where doctors acknowledged the seriousness of his condition while stating there was no immediate threat to his life. The Vatican continues to provide updates on his health.
First Piper 