Vatican: Pope Has Bilateral Pneumnonia

• 19.02.2025, 1:34

His condition has worsened.

The condition of Pope Francis, who was hospitalised last week, has deteriorated again, but the pontiff is ‘in good spirits’. This was reported in the Vatican, reports DW.

The condition of Pope Francis, hospitalised last week with a lung infection, is worsening, doctors have diagnosed him with bilateral pneumonia, the KNA news agency reported, citing a Vatican statement on Tuesday, 18 February.

The new diagnosis required additional drug therapy, the pontiff's press office added. The previous day, the Pope was diagnosed with a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection, which required a change in his treatment plan. The 88-year-old pontiff will remain in hospital indefinitely.

Despite the illness, Francis is in ‘good spirits,’ the Vatican assured. Throughout the day, he was alternating between resting, praying and reading texts. ‘He gives thanks for the connection he feels at this moment and asks with a grateful heart to continue praying for him,’ the Vatican said in a statement.

Pope Francis was admitted to a hospital in Rome on 14 February with a ‘mild fever’ after days of breathing difficulties. The pontiff, who had part of his lung removed when he was young, has been suffering from breathing problems for more than a week.

In March 2023, he spent three nights in hospital due to bronchitis. Despite his health problems, Francis continued to attend official meetings and even took long trips abroad.

In September 2024, he made a twelve-day trip, visiting a total of four Asian countries. In terms of duration and distance, it was the longest trip in his nearly twelve years in office.