Pope Francis has pneumonia in both lungs and remains hospitalized in Rome after a respiratory tract infection, the Vatican said Tuesday.
The news paints a “complex picture” of his health, according to the Vatican. A CT scan revealed the onset of bilateral pneumonia, which the Vatican said is requiring additional medications.
“Nevertheless, Pope Francis remains in good spirits,” his press office said in a statement.
The Vatican announced Monday that Francis was sick with a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract, just three days after he was admitted to Policlinico Agostino Gemelli.
The Vatican announced Tuesday that Francis’ polymicrobial infection has “arisen in the context of bronchiectasis and asthmatic bronchitis, and has required the use of corticosteroid and antibiotics”.
“He expresses his gratitude for the support he feels at this time and kindly asks that prayers for him continue,” his press office said.
Francis has dealt with repeated health issues in recent years, including influenza and respiratory infections. He underwent surgery to address diverticulitis in 2021, and again in 2023 to repair a hernia.
