Vatican City: Pope Francis is battling the onset of double pneumonia, the Vatican confirmed on Tuesday, complicating his treatment and raising concerns about his already fragile health. The 88-year-old pontiff has been suffering from a respiratory infection for over a week and was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14.
According to a Vatican statement, a chest CAT scan conducted on Tuesday afternoon revealed “the onset of bilateral pneumonia that requires further pharmacological therapy.” Bilateral pneumonia is a severe condition that inflames and scars both lungs, making breathing significantly more difficult.
“Laboratory tests, chest X-ray, and the clinical condition of the Holy Father continue to present a complex picture,” the Vatican stated. Officials reiterated that Pope Francis is dealing with a “polymicrobial infection,” necessitating corticosteroid and antibiotic therapy, which has added to the treatment challenges.
Despite his condition, the Vatican emphasized that the pope “remains in good spirits”. Francis has long been vulnerable to lung infections, having had part of one lung removed due to pleurisy in his youth.
A Vatican official, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, clarified that the pontiff had not been placed on a ventilator and was breathing on his own.
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Given his condition, the Vatican announced the cancellation of all public engagements on the pope’s calendar through Sunday. This includes key events scheduled for the 2025 Catholic Holy Year, which runs through next January.
Earlier this week, the Vatican disclosed that doctors had adjusted the pope’s drug therapy for the second time since his hospitalization to address what was described as a “complex clinical situation.” Medical experts note that a polymicrobial infection involves multiple microorganisms—bacteria, viruses, or fungi—making treatment more intricate.
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The Vatican has assured that Pope Francis will remain under medical care for as long as necessary. His health has been a recurring concern in recent years, with past ailments including recurrent flu, sciatica nerve pain, and an abdominal hernia that required surgery in 2023.
The Vatican’s statement on Tuesday conveyed the pope’s gratitude for the global support he has received, stating, “With a thankful heart, (he) asks for continued prayers on his behalf.”
