Vatican City: Pope Francis, the 88-year-old head of the Catholic Church, is currently hospitalised after developing pneumonia in both lungs, the Vatican confirmed on Tuesday. The pontiff was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital last week for bronchitis, but subsequent tests revealed a more complex health issue.
"The laboratory tests, chest X-ray, and the Holy Father's clinical condition continue to present a complex picture," the Vatican said in a statement. While his condition is concerning, the pope remains in "good spirits."
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Pope Francis' condition has worsened since his initial admission. The Vatican explained that the pope is now suffering from a "polymicrobial infection," in addition to his existing bronchiectasis and asthmatic bronchitis. As a result, doctors have had to adjust his treatment, including the use of cortisone and antibiotic therapy.
A chest CT scan conducted Tuesday revealed the onset of bilateral pneumonia, which has required further drug therapy. Pope Francis has a history of lung complications. At the age of 21, he underwent surgery to remove part of his right lung due to pleurisy, which nearly claimed his life at the time.
Despite his health struggles, the Vatican assures that Pope Francis is in good spirits and continues to spend his time in hospital alternating between rest, prayer, and reading.
Public prayers for Pope’s recovery
The pope's health has deeply touched people worldwide, with many gathering in Saint Peter’s Square and outside the hospital to offer prayers for his recovery. Among the well-wishers was Austrian tourist Birgit Jungreuthmayer, who expressed her hopes for a speedy recovery: "I hope that he's getting better soon."
Bolivian resident Jacqueline Troncoso added, "I came to say a prayer for the pope so that he may recover soon. I send him my best wishes."
In response to the outpouring of support, the Vatican shared heartwarming drawings created by children in the hospital for the pope, as well as letters from parents asking for his prayers.
Despite ongoing health challenges, Pope Francis remains an active leader. He has maintained a busy weekly schedule and completed an extensive Asia-Pacific tour in September 2024.
The pope’s health issues are not new; he has previously undergone hernia and colon surgery since 2021 and uses a wheelchair due to knee pain. A source within the Vatican explained that he was weakened after a "very busy" two weeks prior to his hospitalisation, but assured there was no cause for alarm.
Will Pope Francis resign?
Speculation about Pope Francis stepping down has circulated due to his health issues, but in a memoir published last year, he confirmed he had no immediate plans to resign. “I do not have any cause serious enough to make me think of resigning,” he wrote.
In his autobiography, published just last month, Pope Francis stated, “The reality is, quite simply, that I am old,” acknowledging the toll his age and health have taken on his physical condition but reaffirming his commitment to continue with his papacy.
Despite this, he has left the door open for resignation if a "serious physical impediment" arises that would prevent him from carrying out his duties.
Agency
Published: 19 Feb 2025, 10:47 am IST
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