Pope Francis given oxygen and blood transfusion

Gemelli Hospital - Screenshot

Source: Vatican Media

The Holy See Press Office said Pope Francis had a restful night but there were complications on Saturday morning. This evening (Saturday) they issued the following medical update:

"The condition of the Holy Father continues to be critical. Therefore, as explained yesterday, the Pope is not out of danger. This morning, Pope Francis experienced an asthma-like respiratory crisis of prolonged intensity, which required the administration of high-flow oxygen.

Today's blood tests also revealed thrombocytopenia, associated with anaemia, which required the administration of blood transfusions.

The Holy Father remains alert and spent the day in an armchair, although he is more uncomfortable than yesterday. At the moment, the prognosis remains guarded."