Gambiaj.com – (VATICAN, Italy) – Pope Francis’ health has taken a serious turn for the worse, with the Vatican confirming that the 88-year-old pontiff is in a “critical state” after suffering a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis. The latest health bulletin, released on Saturday, February 22, marks the most alarming update since his hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome on February 14.

According to the Vatican, Pope Francis required “high-speed oxygen” treatment following the respiratory crisis, and his prognosis remains uncertain. The news comes amid a surge of speculation over his potential resignation, with some social media posts even falsely reporting his death.

Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin has dismissed these rumors, calling them “unnecessary speculations” in an interview with Corriere della Sera. Medical experts treating the Pope sought to reassure the public in a Friday evening press conference, noting that despite his severe condition, the pontiff remained in good spirits and that “his heart was perfect.”

Before his hospitalization, Pope Francis had shown visible signs of exhaustion. During a Mass at St. Peter’s Square last Sunday, he was forced to interrupt his homily, apologizing and asking a liturgical master to continue reading on his behalf. “I lack breath,” he admitted.

This latest health crisis follows years of declining mobility and recurrent health challenges. Since 2022, the Pope has relied on a wheelchair due to persistent knee pain and frequently uses a cane when standing. He has also struggled with respiratory infections and hip issues and undergone intestinal surgery in June 2023. More recently, he suffered two minor falls between December and January, further raising concerns about his fragility.

Despite these difficulties, Pope Francis has continued to fulfill his papal duties, maintaining an active schedule in the Vatican. However, with his latest hospitalization and the gravity of his condition, questions are now mounting about the future leadership of the Catholic Church.

The Vatican has not provided a timeline for his potential discharge, but further updates are expected as his condition evolves.