On February 22, 2025, Pope Francis remains hospitalized and under serious health conditions following prolonged respiratory issues, as reported by the Vatican. The 88-year-old pontiff has experienced significant complications requiring high-flow oxygen support due to complex respiratory infections. According to Vatican officials, this latest update signifies the first time the Pope's condition has been described as "critical," underscoring the urgency of his medical situation.
Pope Francis has been at Gemelli Hospital since February 14, initially admitted due to exacerbated bronchitis, resulting in viral, bacterial, and fungal infections leading to pneumonia. The pontiff has undergone transfusions related to anemia, with doctors prescribing strict resting protocols and administering supplemental oxygen alongside cortisone and antibiotics.
An official medical update confirmed, "El estado del Santo Padre sigue siendo crítico, por lo que, como se explicó ayer (viernes), el papa no está fuera de peligro." This stark statement from the Vatican emphasized the precariousness of the Pope's health as he continues to face substantial pain and complications. His medical team has indicated he remains alert, but the possibility of developing sepsis —a severe blood infection— poses grave risks to his recovery.
The lead doctor, Sergio Alfieri, disclosed the severity of the Pope's situation, stating, "La sepsis, con sus problemas respiratorios y su edad, sería realmente difícil de superar," pointing out the significant challenges Francis faces due to his age and weakened state. The doctors' latest evaluations indicate he is undergoing treatment and responding to medications, but continuous monitoring is required.
Despite the severe medical circumstances, reports show Pope Francis remains mentally active, engaging with his medical team and continuing to eat. Nonetheless, as he battles this serious illness, speculation about his potential resignation is surfacing, which Vatican officials have been quick to deny. Cardinal Pietro Parolin noted, "Creo que es bastante normal que en estas situaciones puedan difundirse rumores incontrolados," dismissing concerns and reiterative the focus should remain on the Pope's health.
This recent health crisis has drawn extensive attention during the Holy Year, the Vatican's global event celebrated every 25 years, which Francis intended to honor personally by engaging with deacons this past weekend. Instead, Vatican officials will proceed with the scheduled events without him, stressing, "El Papa está en nuestros corazones y nos está acompañando porque nuestras oraciones y las de él van juntas." This remark reflects the seemingly unbreakable bond between the Pope and the faithful, even as he grapples with his condition.
Given his history of chronic pulmonary issues, the public, alongside many church officials, is expressing concern over its potential impact on the Pope's long-term health. Supporters are encouraged to continue praying for his recovery as the world watches closely, hoping for enlivened news from his medical team.