Date of Next Election of Catholic Pope
MetaculusMAR 4 2022
Pope Francis Critical, Receives Blood Transfusions
Above: Candles with Pope Francis' portrait are set at the feet of a statue of John Paul II outside the Gemelli Hospital. Image copyright: Isabella Bonotto/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Facts
Pope Francis, 88, remains in critical condition at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he was admitted on Feb. 14, initially for bronchitis, before being diagnosed with double pneumonia affecting both lungs.
On Saturday, the pontiff experienced a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis requiring high-flow oxygen treatment, and blood tests revealed thrombocytopenia requiring blood transfusions.
The Vatican confirmed for the first time that the pope's condition is "critical" and he "is not out of danger," adding he "continues to be alert and spent the day in an armchair although in more discomfort than yesterday."
The Spin
Narrative A
The pope's health crisis is serious but manageable. Medical professionals are providing appropriate care and monitoring while maintaining transparency about his condition. This suggests that while critical, the situation is under control with a positive long-term outlook.
Narrative B
The pope's deteriorating health condition, combined with his age and history of respiratory issues, raises significant concerns about his ability to continue fulfilling his duties effectively, potentially leading to considerations about succession or resignation.