Vatican City: Doctors have modified Pope Francis’ treatment plan to address what the Vatican describes as a “complex clinical situation” linked to his ongoing respiratory tract infection. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been battling the infection for over a week, remains hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he will stay for as long as necessary, the Vatican announced on Monday.
“The results of the tests carried out in recent days and today have demonstrated a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract, which has led to a further modification of the therapy,” the Vatican said in a statement.
“All tests conducted up to today are indicative of a complex clinical picture that will require an appropriate hospital stay,” it added.
Despite the complications, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni stated that Pope Francis remains “in good spirits.” He did not specify whether the infection was bacterial or viral but confirmed that additional updates on the pope’s condition would be provided later in the day.
Understanding the Pope’s Health Condition
Polymicrobial infections, which involve multiple microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, can be particularly challenging to treat. While bacterial infections typically respond to antibiotics, viral infections often require supportive care rather than direct treatment.
Rev. Dr. Andrea Vicini, a Jesuit priest and medical doctor, explained that the term “polymicrobial” is broad and does not clarify the exact cause of the infection. Vicini, who is also a professor at Boston College, noted that the Vatican’s earlier statement mentioning the pope had eaten breakfast suggests he is not on a respirator.
“It also means the body is not debilitated to the point of not being able to take food and digest it,” he said.
Pope Francis has faced several health challenges in recent years. As a young man, he developed pleurisy, which led to the partial removal of one lung. In recent times, he has been prone to lung infections and influenza.
Impact on Vatican Activities
The Vatican has canceled Pope Francis’ scheduled weekly audience in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday due to his hospitalization. He was also unable to deliver his regular Sunday Angelus prayer or preside over a special Mass for artists marking the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year.
Pilgrims Express Concern and Support
Visitors to the Vatican expressed their well-wishes for the pope’s recovery.
“We certainly wish for him to get better very quickly,” said Rev. Tyler Carter, a Catholic priest from the United States. “He is our father and our shepherd, and so we want his continued health and blessing.”
Manuel Rossi, an 18-year-old tourist from Milan, shared his concern.
“I was quite worried when he canceled his appearance on Sunday. I have seen few popes in my life, and I feel very close to him. I hope he recovers as soon as possible,” he said.
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Continued Engagement from Hospital
Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis has continued making phone calls, including to a Catholic parish in Gaza, according to Italian broadcaster Mediaset. Parish members said the pope called on both Friday and Saturday, describing him as “in good spirits” but “a bit tired”.
On Sunday, Francis took to social media to express gratitude for the support he has received.
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“Thank you for the affection, prayer, and closeness with which you accompany me in these days,” he wrote on X.
