Sky News paused for urgent Pope 'breaking news' as star says 'coming from the Vatican'

Sky News presenter Wilfred Frost halted the regular programming to give an update on the condition of Pope Francis who remains in hospital after being admitted on Valentine's Day, February 14 after he had experienced difficulties breathing for several days.

"We've just an update from the Vatican again on the health of the Pope," he said. "It says he had a good night in hospital, slept and is resting."

He told viewers more informaiton would follow from their correspondent who is currently in Rome.

The Pope has been battling double pneumonia and kidney issues since he was taken into hospital. On Sunday (February 23) a statement said the Pontiff remained in a "critical" condition but "has not presented any further respiratory crises.

He was continuing to receive high-flow oxygen therapy and underwent blood transfusions, while blood tests revealed "initial, mild renal insufficiency" and a kidney issue that is "currently under control."

The Vatican added the 88-year-old pontiff "continues to be alert and well oriented," and his thrombocytopenia — a condition linked to low blood platelet levels, remains stable.

Despite his condition, he "participated in the Holy Mass, together with those who are taking care of him during these days," they said.

The Pope was initally admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties for several days.

Although initially treated for bronchitis, he was later diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs.

On Sunday, Francis asked Catholics worldwide to pray for him, saying in a message: "I am confidently continuing my hospitalisation at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy!"

He expressed gratitude to the doctors, hospital staff, and well-wishers, particularly children who had sent letters and drawings.

Pope Francis had part of a lung removed in his youth due to pleurisy, and so is particularly vulnerable to respiratory infections. This hospitalisation follows previous health concerns, including treatment for bronchitis at the same hospital in March 2023.

The Argentine-born leader of the Roman Catholic Church remains the first Latin American and first Jesuit to serve as pontiff.