Pope Francis has developed bilateral pneumonia, further complicating his treatment for a respiratory infection, the Vatican said on Tuesday. All public events through Sunday have been cancelled, as the 88-year-old pontiff remains in hospital for ongoing care.
🔹 Pope’s Health Worsens Amid Hospitalisation
The Vatican confirmed that a CT scan showed the onset of bilateral pneumonia, requiring additional pharmacological therapy. The condition affects both lungs, making breathing more difficult.
Despite the diagnosis, the Vatican said:
"Pope Francis remains in good spirits."
🔹 Ongoing Treatment and Risks
Francis was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 for a respiratory infection. Doctors have adjusted his medication for the second time as they work to manage a "polymicrobial infection", which involves multiple microorganisms.
The Vatican has not disclosed whether the infection is bacterial or viral. Bacterial pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics, but viral infections require supportive care.
🔹 Why Pope Francis Is at Higher Risk
The pontiff is especially vulnerable to lung infections due to a past lung operation. In his youth, he had part of one lung removed due to pleurisy, a condition that causes inflammation of the lungs.
A Vatican official stated that Francis is breathing on his own and has not been placed on a ventilator.
🔹 Papal Schedule Disrupted
The Vatican announced the cancellation of all public events through Sunday, including key gatherings for the 2025 Catholic Holy Year, which expects 32 million pilgrims to visit Rome.
Doctors have not given a timeline for Francis' discharge, stating:
"The Holy Father will remain in hospital for as long as necessary.
Read next
17:00
The European Commission has warned Meta that it may face daily fines starting 27 June if its modified pay-or-consent advertising model fails to meet EU antitrust requirements under the Digital Markets Act.
16:00
Germany’s data protection commissioner has called on Apple and Google to block the Chinese AI app DeepSeek from their platforms over illegal data transfers and privacy concerns.
15:00
Azerbaijan Turkey
Azerbaijan’s top general observed major drills in Türkiye and met senior Turkish defence leaders, underscoring the allies’ growing military partnership.
14:30
Nike plans to reduce its reliance on China for U.S.-bound products to offset the financial blow from President Donald Trump’s new tariffs, as the sportswear giant posted better-than-expected fourth-quarter results and a milder revenue forecast.
13:56
Azerbaijan and China have deepened energy cooperation, with new agreements signed to advance green energy initiatives and improve Azerbaijan’s electricity transmission system in line with its renewable energy targets.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment