Pope Francis remains in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment for double pneumonia and bronchitis, as his prognosis remains "guarded".

The Holy See Press Office has been providing twice-daily updates on the Pope’s condition since he was admitted to the hospital on February 14.

Vatican Update on Pope’s Health

Tonight will mark his 12th night at the hospital, and officials say the Pontiff's condition remains "critical but stable", according to the latest update from the Vatican released on Tuesday evening, February 25.

In its most recent statement, the Vatican confirmed: “The Holy Father's clinical condition remains critical but stable. No acute respiratory episodes have occurred, and hemodynamic parameters continue to be stable.

"In the evening, he underwent a scheduled CT scan for radiological monitoring of bilateral pneumonia. The prognosis remains guarded.

"In the morning, after receiving the Eucharist, he resumed work activities.”

This follows Monday’s update, which noted some signs of improvement.

"No episodes of asthma-like respiratory distress occurred [Monday], and some laboratory tests have shown improvement. The monitoring of his mild kidney insufficiency has not raised any concerns. Oxygen therapy continues, although with slightly reduced flow and oxygen levels," the statement read.

While there have been positive developments, the Vatican maintains a "cautious" prognosis due to the complexity of the Pope’s overall health.

Spiritual Commitments Continue Amid Illness

Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis has remained engaged in his spiritual duties.

On Tuesday morning, he received the Holy Eucharist and later resumed some of his work activities. Even in his weakened state, he has continued to connect with the global Catholic community, including a recent call to the pastor of Holy Family parish in Gaza to express his “paternal closeness” to the people there.

Over the weekend, the Pope personally acknowledged the wave of global support he has received, saying: "I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy."

He also extended his gratitude to the hospital’s medical staff, adding: "I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick."

The Pope has been particularly moved by messages and drawings from children, which he has cherished during his recovery.

Clarifications Amid Speculation

Following reports suggesting that Pope Francis might be transferred to Rome’s Isola Tiberina—Gemelli Isola Hospital—the Vatican has dismissed these claims.

Officials clarified that the prepared space is designated for private patients and is not intended for the Pontiff.

Global Support and Prayers Continue

As Pope Francis continues his recovery, Catholics and world leaders remain united in prayer.

In St. Peter’s Square, crowds have gathered to offer their support, while religious figures, including Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of the Orthodox Church, have sent personal messages of encouragement.

His handwritten note addressed the Pope as his "beloved brother" and wished him a "swift and complete recovery."

While the latest update from the Vatican offers hope, doctors remain cautious, noting that the Pope’s prognosis remains "guarded." As he continues to fight his illness under medical supervision, the world watches and prays for his recovery.

Featured image credit: Franco Origlia/Getty

The Vatican has released an update on Pope Francis this morning following the pontiff's ninth night in hospital.

On Saturday (February 22), concerns grew for Pope Francis after officials revealed that the 88-year-old was in a "critical" condition as he continues treatment for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.

Now, on Sunday morning, the latest update from the Holy See Press Office states that The Pope spent a peaceful ninth night in the hospital.

However, Vatican officials emphasized that while his condition is stable, he is not out of danger.

Pope Faces Respiratory Crisis and Anemia

On Saturday night, the Vatican released a statement outlining the Pope’s ongoing health struggles.

“The condition of the Holy Father continues to be critical. Therefore, as explained yesterday, the Pope is not out of danger,” the statement read.

Earlier in the day, Pope Francis experienced a severe respiratory crisis resembling an asthma attack, requiring high-flow oxygen treatment. Additionally, blood tests revealed thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) and anemia, prompting doctors to administer blood transfusions.

Despite his fatigue, the Pope remained alert and spent the day sitting in an armchair. His prognosis, however, remains guarded.

Doctors Cautiously Optimistic

During a press conference at Gemelli Hospital on Friday, Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of the Pope’s medical team, and Dr. Luigi Carbone, Vice-Director of Vatican healthcare services, addressed journalists.

The doctors estimated that Pope Francis will be hospitalized for at least another week, stressing that while he is not in imminent danger of death, his condition is still serious.

Dr. Alfieri clarified that the Pope is not on a ventilator, though breathing remains a challenge, and his movement is restricted.

READ MORE: Prayers from around the globe pour in for Pope Francis

However, despite his condition, Pope Francis has maintained his characteristic sense of humor. Alfieri shared a lighthearted moment, recalling how a doctor greeted the Pontiff with “Hello, Holy Father,” to which Francis quipped, “Hello, Holy Son.”

Doctors Monitoring Risk of Sepsis

While the Pope's health appears stable for now, doctors remain vigilant. One of their biggest concerns is that bacteria from his respiratory tract could enter his bloodstream, leading to sepsis, a potentially life-threatening complication.

Dr. Alfieri expressed confidence that Pope Francis will eventually be discharged and return to Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican, though his chronic respiratory issues will persist.

Pope Francis has long battled respiratory issues, having lost part of one lung to pleurisy in his youth. In 2023, he also suffered from an acute bout of pneumonia.

For now, Vatican officials and medical experts continue to closely monitor the Pope’s condition, while the global Catholic community prays for his recovery.

Featured image credit: Vatican Pool / Getty

Officials have released a new update on Sunday evening regarding the condition of Pope Francis amid the Pontiff's ongoing health battle.

The 88-year-old Pope - who was admitted to the hospital on February 14 - has now spent over a week in hospital as he continues to battle double pneumonia and a "guarded prognosis".

Following a "tranquil" ninth night at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, Vatican officials have reported that "the condition of the Holy Father remains critical". They have also shared several updates on The Pope's ongoing treatments.

The Latest Update On The Pope's Condition

The most recent update from The Holy See Press Office - shared on the evening of February 23 - reveals that Pope Francis is still in a "critical" condition.

"The condition of the Holy Father remains critical, but since yesterday evening, he has not experienced any further respiratory crises," the statement begins. "He received two units of concentrated red blood cells with beneficial effects, and his hemoglobin levels have risen.  

"The thrombocytopenia remains stable; however, some blood tests show early, mild renal insufficiency, which is currently under control.  

"High-flow oxygen therapy continues through nasal cannulas.  

"The Holy Father remains alert and well-oriented.  

"The complexity of the clinical situation and the necessary time for the pharmacological treatments to show results require that the prognosis remain guarded.

"This morning, in the apartment on the tenth floor, he participated in the Holy Mass, together with those who have been taking care of him during these days of hospitalization."

Pope Sends Message Of Gratitude

Despite his ongoing health battle, a message from Pope Francis was shared this morning in preparation for the Sunday Angelus, which was read on his behalf.

"I am confidently continuing my hospitalisation at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy," he said.

"I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick."

The Pope also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support he has received from across the world.

"In recent days I have received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children," he wrote. "Thank you for this closeness, and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world!"

Concluding his message, he entrusted his followers to the intercession of Mary, asking them to continue praying for him during this challenging time.

Vatican sources confirmed that the message was written during the last few days.

As mentioned above, The Pope did "participate in the Holy Mass" on Sunday with those who are caring for him, officials have revealed.

Concerns Over His Health Intensify

On Saturday night, concerns over the Pope’s health deepened after he suffered a “prolonged respiratory crisis”, requiring high-flow oxygen support. Doctors confirmed he is still struggling with severe breathing issues, though he is not on a ventilator.

At a press conference on Friday, Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the head of the Pope’s medical team, and Dr. Luigi Carbone, Vice-Director of the Vatican’s healthcare service, emphasized that while Francis is not in immediate danger of death, his condition is still serious.

They also warned of a potential risk of sepsis, should bacteria from his respiratory tract enter his bloodstream.

Despite these risks, Dr. Alfieri said he remains hopeful that the Pope will eventually be discharged, though his chronic respiratory issues will persist.

READ MORE: Prayers from around the globe pour in for Pope Francis

For now, the world watches and prays as Pope Francis continues his fight for recovery—his faith unshaken, and his message of gratitude unwavering.

Featured image credit: Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images

Pope Francis has spent his tenth night at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital as he continues treatment for double pneumonia.

The Pontiff was admitted to the hospital on February 14, and has undergone blood transfusions and other treatments after falling into a "critical" condition.

The Vatican Issues Update On Monday Morning

According to a statement released Monday morning by the Holy See Press Office, Pope Francis: "The night went well; the Pope slept and is resting."

The update is similar to that following Pope Francis' "tranquil" evening the night prior.

The 88-year-old Pontiff has received blood transfusions to help stabilize his hemoglobin levels.

In an update shared Sunday evening, the Vatican reported: "The thrombocytopenia remains stable; however, some blood tests show early, mild renal insufficiency, which is currently under control.”

Additionally, Pope Francis is still receiving high-flow oxygen therapy through nasal cannulas to support his breathing. Despite the severity of his illness, he remains "alert and well-oriented".

“The Holy Father remains alert and well-oriented,” the statement added. However, due to the complexity of his condition, doctors say his prognosis remains "guarded".

A Moment of Faith Amid Illness

Even while hospitalized, the Pope has maintained his commitment to his spiritual duties.

On Sunday, he celebrated Mass in his private hospital apartment, surrounded by the doctors and nurses caring for him.

"[Sunday] morning, in the apartment on the tenth floor, he participated in the Holy Mass, together with those who have been taking care of him during these days of hospitalization," the Vatican reported.

Additionally, despite his ongoing health battle, a message from Pope Francis was shared over the weekend in preparation for the Sunday Angelus, which was read on his behalf.

"I am confidently continuing my hospitalisation at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy," Pope Francis wrote.

"I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick."

The Pope also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support he has received from across the world.

"In recent days I have received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children," he wrote. "Thank you for this closeness, and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world!"

Concluding his message, he entrusted his followers to the intercession of Mary, asking them to continue praying for him during this challenging time.

Vatican sources confirmed that the message was written during the last few days.

Continued Concern for Pope Francis

Pope Francis has faced several health challenges in recent years, including previous respiratory infections and surgery for an abdominal hernia.

His latest hospitalization has drawn global concern, with Catholics and world leaders expressing their prayers and well wishes for his recovery.

One of the most personal messages came from Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, leader of the Orthodox Church, who addressed Pope Francis as his “beloved brother” in a handwritten letter.

He wished him a “swift and complete recovery” and a return to his “sacred and important duties”

As the Pope remains under close medical supervision, the world continues to watch for updates on his condition, hoping for further signs of improvement in the days ahead.

Featured image credit: Franco Origlia/Getty

Pope Francis continues to recover in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he set to spend his 11th night receiving treatment for double pneumonia.

The Pontiff was admitted to the hospital on February 14, and has undergone blood transfusions and other treatments after falling into a "critical" condition.

According to the latest update from the Holy See Press Office, the 88-year-old Pontiff has shown signs of improvement, though his doctors remain cautious about his overall prognosis.

"Slight Improvement" but Continued Monitoring

Despite the severity of his condition, the Vatican reports that Pope Francis has not experienced any further episodes of asthma-like respiratory distress.

"The Holy Father's clinical condition, despite its severity, has shown a slight improvement," this evening's update read. "No episodes of asthma-like respiratory distress occurred today, and some laboratory tests have shown improvement. The monitoring of his mild kidney insufficiency has not raised any concerns."

"Oxygen therapy continues, although with slightly reduced flow and oxygen levels," the update continued.

Doctors remain guarded in their outlook, given the complexity of his health challenges, with the statement adding: "Given the complexity of the clinical picture, the doctors are prudently maintaining their cautious prognosis."

Maintaining His Spiritual Commitments

Even while hospitalized, Pope Francis has continued his religious duties. On Sunday morning, he received the Eucharist in his hospital apartment, where he also celebrated Mass alongside his medical caregivers.

In a message shared over the weekend, the Pope expressed gratitude for the prayers and support he has received from around the world.

"I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy," Pope Francis wrote.

He also thanked the doctors and hospital staff for their dedication, saying, "I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick."

The Pope added that he had been especially touched by letters and drawings from children, acknowledging the widespread concern for his health.

A Personal Call to Gaza

On Sunday evening, despite his condition, Pope Francis made a phone call to the parish priest of Gaza to express his "paternal closeness" amid the ongoing turmoil in the region.

The call was reportedly in response to a video sent by the Holy Family parish, with the Pope reaching out to personally thank them.

Clarification on Hospital Rumors

In addition to providing health updates, the Vatican also addressed rumors about a potential transfer to an apartment at Rome’s Isola Tiberina – Gemelli Isola Hospital.

Reports from a French media outlet suggested that a special apartment had been prepared for the Pope, but Vatican officials dismissed the claims, clarifying that the space is actually designated for private patients and not for the Pontiff.

Continued Global Concern and Support

Pope Francis’ hospitalization has sparked an outpouring of prayers and well-wishes from Catholics and world leaders alike.

Among the messages was a handwritten note from Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, leader of the Orthodox Church, who addressed the Pope as his "beloved brother" and wished him a "swift and complete recovery."

While the Pope remains under careful medical supervision, tonight's update will no doubt come as one of hope for many.

Featured image credit: Vatican Pool / Getty