Pope Francis Diagnosed with Bilateral Pneumonia, Remains in Good Spirits

ROME — The Vatican announced on Tuesday that Pope Francis has developed pneumonia in both lungs. Further tests revealed this complication in the 88-year-old pontiff’s condition, raising concerns about his immune response.

The Vatican statement indicated that the respiratory infection also involves asthmatic bronchitis, necessitating cortisone antibiotic treatment. The Vatican noted that “Laboratory tests, chest X-ray, and the Holy Father’s clinical condition continue to present a complex picture.”

Despite this, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni reported in a later update that the Pope, who had part of his right lung removed in his youth, remains in good spirits and is appreciative of the prayers for his recovery.

Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday in “fair” condition after a week of worsening bronchitis. Monday’s medical assessment diagnosed a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection—a combination of viruses, bacteria, and potentially other organisms affecting his respiratory system.

Bruni stated, “The follow-up chest CT scan which the Holy Father underwent this afternoon … demonstrated the onset of bilateral pneumonia, which required additional drug therapy.”

Bronchitis can lead to pneumonia, a more severe infection of the lungs’ air sacs. Pneumonia can affect part or all of one or both lungs, with bilateral pneumonia being more serious due to the lack of healthy lung tissue to compensate.

Treatment varies but may include oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, and addressing the infection’s cause. Francis is reportedly not currently using supplemental oxygen and has been eating breakfast, reading, and working from his hospital room.

The Vatican hasn’t released details on Francis’ response to medication beyond stating he is afebrile (not running a fever).

Dr. Carmelo D’Asero, a Roman infectious disease and geriatric expert, noted that the absence of a fever isn’t necessarily positive, given the infection’s severity. He explained, “A high fever is a sign of an immune response to a pathogen,” adding, “Having a low fever and having a serious bronchial infection … is a sign of a decreased immune response and that makes us worry a little bit more, let’s say. Maybe if he had a fever, it would have been better.”

The Vatican hasn’t specified the length of the Pope’s hospitalization, stating only that the treatment of this “complex clinical picture,” which has involved medication adjustments, requires an “adequate” stay.

Despite the concerning update, a rainbow appeared over Gemelli hospital on Tuesday afternoon, and Francis received well-wishes in the form of drawings and cards from children in the hospital’s oncology ward.

Indicating the Vatican’s ongoing operations, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican No. 2, continued his visit to Burkina Faso, and Cardinal Michael Czerny prepared for a trip to Lebanon.

However, other engagements were canceled. Wednesday’s general audience is postponed, and Francis’ participation in the Sunday blessing remains uncertain. His hospitalization also necessitated cancellations related to the Vatican Holy Year.

This Holy Year weekend was dedicated to deacons, a pivotal stage for men aspiring to the priesthood. Francis’ audience was canceled, and the Mass will be led by the organizing archbishop.

A similar arrangement occurred last weekend, with a cardinal presiding over a Mass for artists in lieu of a papal audience.

Upcoming Holy Year events involving the Pope include the March 8-9 weekend dedicated to volunteers.

Francis underwent a partial lung removal after a childhood pulmonary infection and experiences winter bronchitis. He has acknowledged being a non-compliant patient, with Vatican aides suggesting he overexerted himself despite his bronchitis diagnosis.

He maintained his demanding schedule and disregarded medical advice to stay indoors during Rome’s cold winter, attending an outdoor Jubilee Mass for the armed forces on February 9th despite breathing difficulties.

This year’s hospitalization has already lasted longer than his 2023 pneumonia-related stay.

—Visual journalist Paolo Santalucia contributed.