Pope Francis' Health Worsens with Bilateral Pneumonia, Hospital Stay Extended

Pneumonia Complicates Hospital Stay

Pope Francis' health has taken a turn for the worse, with the Vatican revealing that the 88-year-old pontiff has developed bilateral pneumonia. This complicates his ongoing hospital treatment for a respiratory infection.

A statement from the Vatican on Tuesday described the Holy Father's condition as "complex," with laboratory tests, chest X-rays, and clinical observations presenting a concerning picture. A chest CAT scan revealed the onset of bilateral pneumonia, necessitating further pharmacological therapy.

The Vatican also confirmed that the pope's respiratory infection involves asthmatic bronchitis, requiring the use of a cortisone corticosteroid and additional antibiotic treatment. Bilateral pneumonia affects both lungs and can make breathing difficult.

Despite the setback, the Vatican spokesperson, Matteo Bruni, reported that the pope is not currently using supplemental oxygen and has been eating breakfast, reading newspapers, and doing some work from his hospital room.

Pope Francis has been hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli hospital since February 14th, suffering from a respiratory infection for over a week. He is particularly susceptible to lung infections due to pleurisy he developed as a young adult, which resulted in the removal of part of one lung.

The Vatican has cancelled all public events on the pope's calendar until Sunday, including several events planned for the 2025 Catholic Holy Year. The pope's doctors have changed his drug therapy twice during his hospital stay to address the "complex clinical situation," described as a "polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract."

While the Vatican has not specified whether the infection is bacterial or viral, the duration of the pope's hospitalization suggests a more serious condition. Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics, but viral infections typically run their course, requiring supportive care to manage symptoms and help the body fight the infection.

Pilgrims and tourists gathered in Saint Peter's Square and outside the Gemelli hospital have been offering prayers and well wishes for the pope's recovery. The Vatican has also published drawings and letters from children and parents, offering their support and prayers for the pontiff.

Pope Francis, who has led the Catholic Church since 2013, has faced several health challenges in recent years, including hernia and colon surgery. He also uses a wheelchair due to knee pain. While he has not ruled out the possibility of resigning if his health deteriorates further, he has stated that he does not currently see any reason to do so.