Pope Francis was diagnosed with “bilateral pneumonia” and remains under medical treatment at a Roman hospital, the Vatican stated on Tuesday. The health of Pope Francis is complex, with lab tests and X-rays of his chest confirming infection.
The Vatican reported that Pope Francis has a “polymicrobial infection” that followed recent bronchitis complicating the treatment. Discovery of pneumonia prompted “further drug therapy” to cure him.
Though ill, the 88-year-old pope is in “fair” health per reports. He is allegedly eating breakfast, reading papers, and even picking up again some of the work he’s done from the hospital.
Francis has chronic respiratory issues after a section of one lung had to be removed when he was younger due to a severe pulmonary infection. This makes him extremely vulnerable to respiratory disease overall, particularly winter.
Due to his present circumstance, some of his upcoming activities have been delayed by the Vatican. His Wednesday general weekly audience will not go on as it ought to be on those days. In addition, the possibility of giving his noon blessing on Sundays is still uncertain for a second consecutive week.
The Vatican press office stated that Pope Francis “received the Eucharist and, throughout the day, moved between rest, prayer, and reading.” His health remains in close observation with medical professionals continuing to modify his treatment as needs dictate.
Despite his status being a matter of concern, his ability to keep up with his daily activities presents a sign of stability. The Vatican has not yet provided a timeline for his release, but information about his health will keep coming out as more news is issued.
Leave a Reply