The Pope is “in good spirits,” bringing hope and positivity, according to an uplifting update from the Vatican.
Pope Francis is currently battling pneumonia in both of his lungs, and the Vatican reports that his condition remains complex and concerning. The pontiff, who is 88 years old, has been dealing with a significant respiratory infection for over a week. He was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Friday afternoon, where medical staff are closely monitoring his health.
Following a follow-up chest CT scan, the Vatican disclosed, “The imaging revealed the onset of bilateral pneumonia, which necessitated additional medication.” This further underscores the gravity of his respiratory issues, prompting a modification in his treatment strategy.
The Vatican provided additional updates, indicating that a range of tests—including lab analyses and a chest X-ray—along with the Pope’s clinical status, continue to present a complicated health picture. Despite these challenges, it has been emphasized that Pope Francis remains in relatively good spirits. He has been occupying his time with reading, resting, and engaging in prayer, which reflects his resilience during this health crisis. He has also expressed heartfelt gratitude toward those sending well wishes and has asked for their prayers.
Before his hospitalization, the Pope exhibited symptoms of bronchitis for several days, leading him to delegate responsibilities to other officials who delivered prepared speeches in his stead at various public events. He was scheduled to preside over several significant events during the weekend, marking the commencement of the 2025 Catholic Holy Year, which will continue through next January. However, in light of his health issues, all public events on his calendar have been suspended through Sunday.
On Monday, the Vatican announced that medical professionals had revised the Pope’s drug therapy for the second time during his hospital stay. This was implemented to better address what was initially thought to be a “polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract.”
The Pope’s susceptibility to lung infections is notably heightened due to his medical history. He developed pleurisy as an adult and underwent surgery to remove a portion of one lung at the age of 21, which has made him more vulnerable to respiratory ailments. Over his 12 years as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis has experienced several hospitalizations, including a significant stay in March 2023, when he spent three nights receiving treatment for bronchitis.