Pope Francis' condition has worsened and he is 'suffering more' as the Vatican reveals that the pontiff suffered a 'prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis' this morning.
The Vatican said the 88-year-old is "more unwell than yesterday" and had received blood transfusions.
He has been in hospital for more than a week being treated for double pneumonia and chronic bronchitis.
"The Holy Father continues to be vigilant and spent the day in an armchair even though he was suffering more than yesterday. At the moment the prognosis is reserved," the Vatican's statement said.
Pope Francis ReutersThe Vatican said that doctors had to administer a "high flow" of oxygen because of his breathing crisis.
It added that the blood transfusions were necessary because tests showed he had a low platelet count, associated with anaemia. "The Holy Father's condition remains critical," the statement said. "The Pope is not out of danger."
He was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 after experiencing difficulty breathing for several days.
Earlier today, the Vatican had announced that the pontiff would not appear in public to lead prayer with pilgrims on Sunday - the second session in a row he has missed.
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Pope Francis was struggling with breathing difficulties for several days before undergoing treatment
GETTYYesterday, his doctors said there was no imminent risk to his life but he was "not out of danger".
The Pope's doctor Sergio Alfieri stressed the 88-year-old will remain in hospital "at least through next week", adding Francis is keeping "good spirits" in Rome.
The Vatican has described the Pope's infection as "complex," saying it is being caused by two or more micro-organisms.
He marked his week-long hospital stay yesterday by getting up and having breakfast on Friday morning, the Vatican reported.
Meloni reported that Francis was 'alert and responsive' during their meeting
PAVatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed Francis had slept well and taken his breakfast whilst seated in an armchair.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited the Pope on Wednesday, becoming his first known VIP visitor during this hospital stay.
Meloni reported that Francis was "alert and responsive" during their meeting.
The Pope demonstrated his characteristic humour, joking with Meloni about people betting on his death, according to Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera.
"He hasn't lost his proverbial sense of humour," Meloni said in a statement.
