Pope Francis has pneumonia in both lungs – Vatican
The Vatican announced on the evening of Tuesday, February 18, that Pope Francis, 88, has developed pneumonia in both lungs, following new tests that revealed further complications in his condition.
His respiratory infection also includes asthmatic bronchitis.
“Laboratory tests, a chest X-ray, and the Holy Father’s clinical condition continue to present a complex picture,” the Vatican stated.
As a young man, Pope Francis underwent surgery to remove the upper lobe of his right lung.
Despite his illness, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni confirmed that the pope remains in good spirits.
He was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital in “fair” condition on Friday, February 14, after a weeklong struggle with bronchitis worsened. By Monday, February 17, doctors diagnosed him with a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection, indicating a mix of viruses, bacteria, and possibly other organisms in his respiratory system.
“The follow-up chest CT scan conducted this afternoon confirmed the onset of bilateral pneumonia, requiring additional drug therapy,” Bruni said.
The Vatican noted that Pope Francis continues to eat breakfast daily, read newspapers, and work from his hospital room.
While no timeline has been provided for his discharge, officials stated that his treatment, which has already undergone two medication adjustments, necessitates an “adequate” hospital stay.
