The health of Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, has significantly worsened over the past 24 hours, the Vatican announced Sunday.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who was admitted to Rome's Gemelli University Polyclinic Hospital on 14 February for bronchitis treatment and medical examinations, has since been diagnosed with pneumonia affecting both lungs.
In a statement released Saturday, the Vatican disclosed that Pope Francis has been "suffering from prolonged respiratory difficulties similar to asthma", with his condition showing marked deterioration compared to the previous day.
"The Holy Father's condition remains concerning, and he is not out of danger", the statement continued.
Vatican officials reported that whilst the Pope remains conscious of his health situation and has spent the day seated in a chair, his physical condition has deteriorated further from yesterday. The pontiff requires supplemental oxygen and circulatory support, with tests revealing decreased platelet levels.
Prior to his hospitalisation, the Pope had been exhibiting symptoms of bronchitis for several days. On 17 February, the Vatican had issued a statement indicating that Pope Francis was receiving treatment for a "complex physical condition" and would remain hospitalised for as long as necessary.
The statement further revealed that multiple bacterial infections (polymicrobial infections) in the Pope's respiratory tract necessitated modifications to his treatment protocol. The Vatican added that the Pope remains "under prescribed treatment in stable condition" and is currently free from fever.
