Pope Francis is currently undergoing treatment for a respiratory tract infection, which the Vatican has described as presenting a “complex clinical picture” requiring extended hospitalization. As the 88-year-old pontiff’s health continues to raise concerns, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni confirmed that the pope’s condition is being closely monitored.
Recent medical tests indicate that Pope Francis is suffering from a “polymicrobial respiratory tract infection.” As a result, doctors have altered his medication regimen to better address the infection. While the Vatican did not specify a timeline for his hospitalization, Bruni emphasized that the pope’s symptoms would require an appropriate hospital stay to ensure his recovery.
Pope Francis, who has a history of pulmonary health issues, was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday in a “fair” condition. His condition worsened after a week of battling bronchitis, leading to the current hospitalization. Doctors initially diagnosed the infection and prescribed “absolute rest” along with unspecified drug therapies. Following his admission, his fever subsided, and he is reported to be in stable condition, with doctors providing a hopeful outlook.
On Monday morning, the pontiff was able to eat breakfast and read the newspapers after a peaceful night. Despite his illness, Pope Francis remains active and determined. The Argentine pope, who underwent lung surgery in his youth, is known for his tireless work ethic and has maintained a demanding schedule even in the face of deteriorating health. Last year, when he was hospitalized for pneumonia, he only acknowledged the severity of his condition after being urgently admitted due to faintness and chest pain.
Pope Francis was determined to finish his morning audiences on Friday, despite feeling short of breath and struggling to speak for extended periods. Although the Vatican has confirmed his canceled appointments through Monday, the pope’s next scheduled event is a general audience on Wednesday. He is also scheduled to preside over the ordination of deacons on Sunday, but both events now seem uncertain, with the Vatican’s official schedule still listing them.
The pope’s absence was felt this past Sunday when he missed the Jubilee Mass for artists, with a cardinal stepping in to fulfill his duties. The Vatican has not yet confirmed whether the pope will participate in upcoming events, but his health remains the priority as he continues to recover.
