Pope Francis in critical condition after health worsens

Vatican says pontiff is 'not out of danger' following respiratory crisis

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Nuns pray in front of Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where Pope Francis is admitted for treatment on Feb. 22. © Reuters

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) -- The Vatican said on Saturday that Pope Francis' health had deteriorated over the past 24 hours and for the first time described his condition as "critical," reporting he had needed supplemental oxygen and blood transfusions.

In a statement, the Vatican said the 88-year-old Francis, who has double pneumonia, had suffered a "prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis."

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