The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis remains in a critical condition as he continues his treatment at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. The 88-year-old pontiff is being closely monitored for double pneumonia and has recently developed mild signs of kidney failure, which are currently under control.
Despite experiencing a severe respiratory crisis earlier in the week, the Pope has not had any additional respiratory emergencies since Saturday morning. He continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy and has benefited from recent blood transfusions to address thrombocytopenia and anemia.
Pope Francis remains alert and well-oriented, participating in Holy Mass from his hospital apartment. The Vatican emphasizes that the complexity of his condition and the time needed for medical treatments to take effect mean that his prognosis remains cautious.