Pope Francis, 88, is facing a more “complex clinical picture” due to a respiratory tract infection, requiring an extended hospital stay, The Associated Press reports, citing the Vatican.
Tests revealed a “polymicrobial respiratory tract infection,” necessitating a change in his medication.
The Pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday after bronchitis worsened. While initial reports indicated a stable condition and receding fever, his symptoms are now deemed complex enough to warrant further hospitalization. The Vatican has not provided a timeframe for his release.
Francis, who had part of a lung removed as a young man, ate breakfast and read the newspapers Monday morning. However, age-related decline in immune function and lung capacity is raising concerns.
The Pope’s hospitalization has already led to cancellations of Vatican events, including a meeting with artists at Cinecitta film studios. Doubts are also cast on his participation in upcoming Holy Year events, including the ordination of deacons scheduled for Sunday. This week’s general audience has also been canceled. His official calendar shows no activities until March 5th.
Despite his frail health, Pope Francis maintains a demanding schedule. He uses a wheelchair or walker due to knee problems and suffers from sciatica. He also underwent colon surgery in 2021 and abdominal surgery in 2023.
