Pope Francis’ condition stabilizes, remains critical, Vatican says

As of Tuesday evening, Pope Francis suffered no acute respiratory episodes and his blood pressure levels appeared stable, according to a report by Vatican News. Doctors remained cautious of his condition after conducting another round of chest X-rays to monitor the pontiff’s infected lungs. Francis rested quietly Tuesday night and sat up in an armchair Wednesday morning to continue his oxygen therapy, the Holy See noted in a follow-up statement.

How bad is his condition? The 88-year-old pontiff was hospitalized just under two weeks ago for a respiratory infection which was later revealed to be double pneumonia. Vatican leaders described Francis as in good spirits, despite the infection in both lungs. The pope has suffered bouts of respiratory illness throughout his life, both in recent years and as a young man. Doctors removed a piece of Francis’ lung in 1957 due to infection.

Dig deeper: Read Lauren Canterberry’s report for more background on the pope’s condition and how it affects his office.