Pope Francis remains in critical condition, Vatican says

Pope Francis remains in critical condition for a second consecutive day after suffering a respiratory crisis.

Over the past 24 hours the 88-year-old, who is suffering from double pneumonia, has received "high-flow oxygen therapy" through a tube under his nose.

The pope has not had any further respiratory crises overnight and has been described as "alert and well-oriented," according to the Vatican.

Pope Francis in critical condition

The Vatican says Pope Francis's health has deteriorated over the past 24 hours, adding that the pontiff had suffered a "prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis" and had needed blood transfusions. 

The Vatican announced the holy father had suffered a "prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis" on Saturday, local time.

His prognosis is still guarded due to the complexity of his clinical condition.

Blood tests revealed "an initial, slight renal insufficiency, which is currently under control," referring to the pope's kidney function.

The pope has remained in a Rome hospital since he was admitted on February 14.

Outside Gemelli hospital, people gathered to pray near a statue of the late Pope John Paul II, who was treated at the facility many times during his leadership.

People left flowers and notes for Francis, and lit candles at the base of the late pope's memorial.

In a written message for his usual Sunday prayer in St Peter's Square, which the pope was unable to read out for a second consecutive week, Francis said he was continuing "confidently" with his treatment in hospital.

Archbishop Rino Fisichella, a senior Vatican official, told people at a Mass in St Peter's Basilica on Sunday morning they should make their prayers for Francis "stronger and more intense".