GUWAHATI, Feb 23: Pope Francis is in a critical condition after suffering a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis since Saturday morning, the Vatican said.
“The Holy Father’s condition remains critical,” it said in a statement, and added: “The Pope is not out of danger.”
The pontiff’s condition has worsened, doctors reported, with his health now described as “more unwell than yesterday” due to a prolonged asthma-like respiratory episode.
Pope Francis was given high-flow oxygen in response to his respiratory crisis, as the Vatican stated that the pontiff, however, remains alert.
The 88-year-old head of the Roman Catholic Church is being treated for pneumonia in both lungs at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome.
He rushed to hospital last Friday where he was diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs.
Pope Francis had reportedly told his private aides that he might not survive the battle he has been fighting against pneumonia, media reports earlier stated.
Along with pneumonia, Pope Francis is also dealing with asthmatic bronchitis requiring cortisone and antibiotics for treatment, reports said, adding that doctors have confirmed that his respiratory infection is caused by a mix of viruses, bacteria, and potentially other organisms, complicating his recovery.
Meanwhile, Christians across the world are organising prayer meetings for the pontiff’ gets ‘s early recovery.
