THE Vatican has given the latest update on Pope Francis’s health as the 88-year-old Pontiff remains in critical condition.

Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14 after struggling with breathing difficulties, later being diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs.

In its latest update on Sunday morning, the Vatican said: “The night was tranquil, the pope rested.”

On Saturday night, the Vatican had confirmed his condition was critical following a prolonged respiratory crisis that forced doctors to administer high-flow oxygen therapy. 

Tests also revealed thrombocytopenia, a low platelet count linked to anemia.

Doctors have given a “reserved” prognosis, indicating the situation remains touch-and-go.

Francis, who has been pope since 2013, has suffered bouts of ill health in the past two years.

He is particularly prone to lung infections because he developed pleurisy as a young adult and had part of one lung removed.

The Pope’s frail health has fueled speculation over a possible resignation—something the Vatican has firmly denied.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, dismissed rumors in an interview with Corriere della Sera.

He said: “Speculation seems useless when what really matters is the health of Francis, his recovery, and return to the Vatican.”

Although Pope Francis previously stated he had signed a preemptive resignation letter in case of medical incapacity, the Vatican insists he remains “fully conscious, alert, eating, and working.”

Doctors have warned that sepsis—a life-threatening blood infection—poses the greatest risk. As of Friday, there was no sign of it, and the Pope was responding to treatment.

Francis has a history of chronic lung disease, having had part of one lung removed as a young man due to pleurisy.

His winter bouts of bronchitis have worsened in recent years, making him particularly vulnerable.

The Pope’s illness coincides with the Vatican’s Holy Year celebrations, a rare, once-in-25-years event.

Francis had planned to lead a weekend celebration for deacons, but Vatican organisers stepped in to preside over Sunday’s Mass in his absence.

For the second consecutive weekend, the Pope is skipping his traditional Sunday Angelus prayer.

While he could have delivered it remotely, the Vatican confirmed he is not well enough.

Despite his absence, Catholic faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square expressed their support.

Luis Arnaldo López Quirindongo, a deacon from Puerto Rico, said: “Even though he’s not physically here, we know he’s here.

“He’s recovering, but he’s in our hearts.”

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