Pope Francis diagnosed with Pneumonia in both lungs, Vatican confirms

Pope Francis has developed pneumonia in both lungs, and his condition remains complex, according to the Vatican.

The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been battling a respiratory infection for over a week, was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Friday.

“A follow-up chest CT scan this afternoon showed the onset of bilateral pneumonia, requiring additional drug therapy,” the Vatican said in a statement, citing a BBC report on Wednesday.

Despite the diagnosis, the Pope is said to be in “good spirits,” spending his day reading, resting, and praying. He also expressed gratitude to well-wishers and asked for prayers.

Before his admission, Pope Francis had been experiencing bronchitis-like symptoms for several days, prompting him to delegate officials to deliver prepared speeches at events.

He had been scheduled to lead several events for the 2025 Catholic Holy Year but has since canceled all public engagements through Sunday.

On Monday, the Vatican announced that doctors had adjusted his medication for the second time to treat what was initially believed to be a polymicrobial respiratory infection.

Pope Francis is particularly vulnerable to lung infections, having undergone surgery at age 21 to remove part of one lung due to pleurisy.

Throughout his 12-year papacy, he has been hospitalized multiple times, including a three-night stay in March 2023 for bronchitis.

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