In brief
Pope Francis, at 88 years old, is battling pneumonia amid complex health challenges, prompting canceled public engagements.
Pope Francis has been diagnosed with pneumonia affecting both lungs, according to a recent statement from the Vatican. The pontiff's condition has been described as "complex," with the 88-year-old experiencing symptoms of a respiratory infection for over a week. He was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on Friday. "The follow-up chest CT scan which the Holy Father underwent this afternoon... demonstrated the onset of bilateral pneumonia, which required additional drug therapy," the Vatican disclosed. They emphasized that lab tests, a chest X-ray, and the Pope's clinical condition continue to present a "complex picture." Despite these health challenges, the Vatican reported that the Pope remains in "good spirits," spending time reading, resting, and praying. He has expressed gratitude toward those extending their well-wishes and has requested continued prayers from the faithful. Prior to his hospitalization, Pope Francis exhibited symptoms of bronchitis for several days and had delegated official duties for certain events. He was scheduled to oversee multiple activities concerning the upcoming 2025 Catholic Holy Year, but all public engagements have now been suspended through Sunday. Alerts from the Vatican indicate that on Monday, adjustments were made to the Pope’s medication for the second time during his stay at the hospital to address what was then considered a "polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract." Pope Francis is particularly susceptible to lung infections, having dealt with pleurisy as an adult. At the age of 21, he also had part of one of his lungs removed. Throughout his 12-year papacy, he has experienced several hospitalizations, including a stay in March 2023 where he was treated for bronchitis.
