Pope Francis

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by Mick the Ram

The Holy See press office have released a statement confirming that Pope Francis condition has worsened, and he has been diagnosed as having developed pneumonia in both of his lungs.

The 88-year-old pontiff has been suffering from a respiratory infection for more than a week and was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday 14 February.

A follow-up chest CT scan prescribed by the Vatican medical team revealed the onset of “bilateral pneumonia”, which will require additional pharmacological therapy.

Despite the Pope being especially prone to lung infections due to contracting pleurisy and having part of one of his lungs removed at age 21, a spokesperson was keen to stress that he “nevertheless remains in good spirits”.

Missed Angelus prayer

The Pope was checked into the hospital in the Italian capital for what were described as “diagnostic tests” relating to a respiratory tract infection, after suffering with bronchitis symptoms in the days prior and had delegated officials read prepared speeches at events.

Francis also did not lead the weekly Angelus prayer on Sunday 16 February, only the second time that it has happened in his almost 12-year-long papacy.

In addition, he had been due to lead several events over the weekend for the 2025 Catholic Holy Year which runs through to next January; however all public events on the Pope’s calendar have been cancelled for the time being.

Polymicrobial infection

It was reported that on Monday 17 February doctors had changed the Pope’s drug therapy for the second time during his hospital stay to tackle what at the time was thought to be a “polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract”.

Polymicrobial infections are acute and chronic diseases that can be caused by a combination of viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites, leaving Vatican officials to stress that his condition remains “complex”.

No stranger to hospital admissions

The Pope apparently had a peaceful night and spent his latest day in hospital reading, resting and praying, before asking for his gratitude to be passed on to all his many well-wishers.

During his 12 years as leader of the Roman Catholic church, the Argentine has been hospitalised several times and he has a condition known as diverticulitis, which can cause the inflammation or infection of the colon.

More recently, he suffered two falls which have resulted in him using a wheelchair to help alleviate his restricted mobility.

Royal visit in doubt?

It remains to be seen just how long the Pope will be unable to carry out his business, but it will be hoped he can return to good enough health to still welcome King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

The royal couple announced only last week that they are intending to visit the Vatican in the spring of this year on a trip that coincides with their 20th wedding anniversary.