Pope Francis is battling a “polymicrobial infection” of his respiratory tract, prompting a change in his hospital treatment, the Vatican announced on Monday. The test results revealed a “complex clinical picture” for the 88-year-old pontiff, who has long struggled with lung-related health issues.
According to the Vatican’s statement, the results indicated that the infection required a further adjustment in treatment, necessitating “adequate hospitalization” for the pope, who has faced a series of respiratory challenges in recent years.
“The results of the tests carried out in recent days and today have shown a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract, leading to a further change in therapy,” the Vatican said. “All tests conducted thus far suggest a complex clinical condition that will require appropriate hospitalization.”
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni reported earlier Monday that the pope had a restful night, read newspapers, and had breakfast.
Pope Will Not Lead Sunday Angelus Prayer, Hospital Stay Duration Uncertain
The pope was admitted to a hospital in Rome last week for diagnostic tests related to a respiratory infection. The Vatican later confirmed that he was being treated at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in the Italian capital. Following his hospitalization, he canceled all meetings for the following three days, including the general audience scheduled for Wednesday.
This marks the second time in his nearly 12-year papacy that Pope Francis has missed the weekly Angelus prayer on Sunday.
Doctors have prescribed “complete rest” for the pontiff, who had been involved in a series of meetings and public engagements before his hospitalization.
In the past, Pope Francis has battled severe pneumonia, which led to part of one lung being removed. Recently, he has had two falls and has been using a wheelchair to assist with his reduced mobility. Additionally, he has been living with diverticulitis, a condition that affects the colon, and underwent surgery in 2021 to remove part of it.