Pope Francis has been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, affecting both of his lungs, the Vatican announced on Tuesday.
This marks another health challenge for the 88-year-old leader of the Catholic Church, who was admitted to a Rome hospital last Friday.
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Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, further tests revealed a polymicrobial infection in his respiratory tract.
A chest CT scan confirmed the pneumonia, prompting doctors to begin targeted drug therapy.
Despite his condition, the Vatican assured that he remains in good spirits, spending his time resting, praying, and reading.
Francis, deeply moved by the outpouring of support, expressed gratitude for the prayers and well-wishes he has received.
“He feels the closeness of those praying for him,” the Vatican statement read.
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This hospitalization is the pope’s fourth in recent years. In 2023, he underwent abdominal surgery and was treated for pneumonia earlier that year.
His history with respiratory issues dates back to his youth in Argentina, when a pulmonary infection led to the partial removal of one lung, leaving him more vulnerable to lung diseases.
Due to his health, the Vatican has canceled an upcoming audience scheduled for Saturday, and he will not celebrate Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica.
His hospitalization also comes just weeks before the Lenten season, a significant period of reflection and prayer in the Christian calendar.
Last year, during Holy Week, he skipped the Good Friday procession at Rome’s Colosseum to conserve his strength but later led thousands in Easter celebrations.
As the world watches and prays for his recovery, Pope Francis continues to show resilience, facing each health challenge with unwavering faith and determination.