Pope Francis is in serious condition after suffering an asthmatic respiratory crisis that necessitated oxygen administration by doctors, according to the Vatican as reported by The Associated Press.

Furthermore, the Pope received blood transfusions due to a low platelet count, .

According to a Vatican statement quoted by The , “The Holy Father remains alert and spent the day in an armchair, though experiencing more pain than the previous day. Currently, the prognosis is reserved.”

Vatican News reported that medical professionals state the Pope is not in “danger of death” but is not completely “out of danger” and will require hospitalization for “at least” the entire following week. Doctors are concerned about the risk of sepsis, a potentially fatal infection.

senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel told ” Live” that he is closely monitoring the next 12 hours, considering it a critical period.

“This type of complication is very common, especially given his underlying bronchitis and upper airway problems,” Siegel stated.

He also mentioned that, considering Pope Francis’s medical history, pneumonia is “very, very likely.” However, despite the complications, Dr. Siegel stated he is “not in any way pessimistic” about the situation.

On Saturday, the Vatican proceeded with its Holy Year celebrations in the absence of Pope Francis. also announced that he would not make public appearances on Sunday, repeating his absence from the previous week.

The 88-year-old Pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 after experiencing respiratory issues initially believed to be related to bronchitis. Doctors later diagnosed him with double pneumonia.

Pope Francis has a long history of respiratory problems. At age 21, he underwent partial lung removal following pleurisy, an inflammation of the lung membranes.
In his recent autobiography, downplayed his health issues, attributing his struggles to his age.

“The Church is governed with the mind and heart, not the legs,” the Pope wrote.