Pope Francis's health is still worrisome, with the Vatican announcing on Saturday that his condition is described as 'critical'.

The 88-year-old pontiff is currently alert but has suffered a respiratory attack that required 'high-flow oxygen' and blood transfusions.

In a public statement, the Vatican explained that Pope Francis endured a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis earlier in the day, necessitating high-flow oxygen.

Daily blood tests revealed thrombocytopenia along with anemia, which led medical staff to provide blood transfusions.

The Vatican's update highlighted that the Holy Father's condition remains critical, and although he is alert, he is experiencing more discomfort compared to the previous day.

Currently, the prognosis for Pope Francis is still cautious.

He was first admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 for bronchitis; however, his condition later progressed to pneumonia affecting both lungs, which raised significant alarm among the public and church officials.

Medical professionals who spoke to the media on Friday stated that while there is no immediate threat to the pontiff's life, he is still deemed 'not out of danger'.