Vatican City: Pope Francis, 88, is battling the onset of bilateral pneumonia, complicating treatment for his respiratory infection, the Vatican confirmed on Tuesday. The pontiff, who has been unwell for over a week, was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14.
A chest CAT scan revealed inflammation in both lungs, requiring additional pharmacological therapy. The Vatican described his condition as “complex,” with a polymicrobial infection necessitating corticosteroid and antibiotic treatment. Despite this, Pope Francis remains in good spirits and continues to breathe on his own without ventilatory support.
The Vatican has canceled all public engagements through Sunday, including events for the 2025 Catholic Holy Year. Doctors are closely monitoring his condition, and he will remain hospitalized as long as necessary. The Pope, who lost part of one lung in his youth due to pleurisy, has faced several health challenges in recent years, including flu, nerve pain, and abdominal surgery in 2023.
Expressing gratitude for the global outpouring of support, Pope Francis has asked for continued prayers.
