Pope Francis is in critical condition after he suffered a long asthmatic respiratory crisis, the Vatican has said.
The 88-year-old Pontiff has been in hospital for the past week with pneumonia and a complex lung infection.
He received blood transfusions after tests showed low platelet counts associated with anaemia, the Vatican said.
His current condition is described as “more unwell than yesterday”.
“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,” said a statement.
Prayers are being said around the world for the Pope as he receives treatment at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome.
