Pope Francis, battling double pneumonia, remains in a critical condition for a second day running and has shown an "initial, slight insufficiency" in his kidney function, the Vatican said on Sunday. The prognosis for the 88-year-old pope,

Pope Francis had breakfast on his seventh day in hospital, the Vatican said on Thursday in its latest update on his health.

Decorated candles and flowers are placed at the base of the statue of the late Pope John Paul II outside Gemelli Hospital, where Pope Francis is admitted for treatment, in Rome, Italy, February 23, 2025.

The 88-year-old pontiff suffered a “prolonged asthmatic crisis” and low platelets, the Vatican said, but was alert and sitting in an armchair.

Pope Francis purportedly shared a written message from his hospital bed while remaining in critical condition and continuing treatment in Rome.

The 88-year-old’s critical condition was a setback for hopes that he might recover from his recent fight with bronchitis and pneumonia.