Vatican Reports Pope Francis in Critical Condition Had a Positive Night in Hospital

VATICAN CITY, Feb 24 (Reuters) - Pope Francis, battling double pneumonia in critical condition, had a restful night in the hospital, according to the Vatican on Monday.

The 88-year-old Pope was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 due to breathing difficulties, which led to the diagnosis of pneumonia in both lungs.

The Vatican announced his critical condition on Sunday, mentioning an initial kidney insufficiency.

The Pope's prognosis remains guarded after a blood transfusion on Saturday following a respiratory crisis resembling asthma.

The Vatican's brief update on Monday stated, "It was a good night, the Pope slept and is resting."

Pneumonia, a serious infection that can damage lungs, has complicated the Pope's health, attributed to multiple microorganisms.

Since becoming Pope in 2013, Francis has faced periods of poor health, aggravated by previous lung issues from pleurisy and partial lung removal in his youth.