Pope Francis in Critical Condition with Lung Infection

2025-02-23 global

Vatican City, Saturday, 22 February 2025.
Pope Francis, 88, remains hospitalized with bilateral pneumonia, facing significant health threats, as concerns grow over how his condition might affect global religious leadership.

Critical Health Status

Pope Francis has been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli hospital since February 14, 2025, battling a complex respiratory infection that has developed into bilateral pneumonia [1][2]. The pontiff’s medical team, led by Dr. Sergio Alfieri, confirms that while his condition isn’t immediately life-threatening, he remains ‘not out of danger’ [7]. The 88-year-old religious leader is receiving high-flow oxygen therapy and blood transfusions due to anemia [1], with doctors particularly concerned about the risk of sepsis [1][7].

Medical Complications

The Pope’s condition is particularly complex, involving a combination of viral, bacterial, and fungal infections affecting both lungs [1][3]. His personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, has prescribed a rigorous treatment regimen including cortisone, antibiotics, and supplemental oxygen [1]. The situation is further complicated by Francis’s pre-existing chronic bronchitis, which has resulted in permanent airway damage known as bronchiectasis [7]. Despite these challenges, doctors report that the Pope had a restful night and remains alert, even maintaining his characteristic sense of humor [5].

Timeline of Deterioration

The Pope’s health decline became evident on February 6, 2025, when the Vatican announced he had bronchitis and would restrict activities [3]. Despite this warning, Francis continued his duties, even presiding over an outdoor Mass on February 9 where he publicly acknowledged breathing difficulties [3]. The situation deteriorated rapidly, leading to his hospitalization on February 14 [4]. Medical professionals now indicate that Francis essentially ‘worked himself into the hospital’ due to his driven sense of mission [3].

Global Response and Future Implications

The Pope’s condition has triggered an outpouring of support from religious and political leaders worldwide [4]. Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi has addressed the possibility of resignation, noting that if Francis’s ability to maintain direct contact becomes compromised, he might consider stepping down [6]. This is particularly significant given that Francis has previously confirmed the existence of a resignation letter prepared in case of medical incapacitation [7]. Doctors expect his hospitalization to continue at least through the week of February 25, 2025 [7], with his recovery requiring careful monitoring even after discharge.

Sources

Pope Francis critical condition