The 88-year-old pontiff is battling pneumonia in both lungs, prompting a “complex” treatment plan

Pope Francis is fighting pneumonia in both lungs, the Vatican confirmed on Tuesday, as doctors administer an intensive treatment regimen to combat the 88-year-old pontiff’s worsening respiratory condition. His schedule has been cleared through the weekend, signalling growing concerns over his health.

Francis, who had part of one lung removed in his youth, was admitted to Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic last Friday after struggling with another bout of bronchitis. Initial tests pointed to a respiratory tract infection, but further scans have now revealed a polymicrobial pneumonia, a complex infection arising from asthmatic bronchitis and bronchiectasis—an airway-widening condition that makes the lungs more vulnerable.

Doctors have placed him on a strict antibiotic and cortisone therapy to manage the infection, while the Vatican insists that he remains “in good spirits.” On Tuesday morning, the pope reportedly ate breakfast, spent time in prayer, and received Holy Communion. However, his medical team has ordered “absolute rest,” and he will not be delivering his scheduled Sunday Mass.

A Worsening Health Struggle

This is Pope Francis’s fourth hospitalisation since his election in 2013, adding to a growing list of medical concerns. In recent years, he has undergone major surgeries, including the removal of 13 inches of his colon in 2021 and abdominal surgery in 2023 to repair a hernia. He has also suffered multiple falls, appearing visibly weak and bloated in public appearances leading up to his latest hospital stay.

Experts say pneumonia at his age is a grave condition. “For an 88-year-old requiring hospitalisation, this is serious,” said Dr Daniel Culver, chairman of pulmonary medicine at the Cleveland Clinic. While many patients recover, he noted that the severity depends on factors such as whether the pope requires oxygen support or intensive care.

Mounting Concerns Within the Vatican

The Vatican has remained tight-lipped about the full extent of Francis’s condition, but reports suggest his health had been deteriorating for weeks. Italian media claims doctors had urged him to seek treatment days before he finally entered hospital. His declining strength had become evident, with the pontiff struggling to read aloud and frequently delegating speaking duties to others.

With millions of Catholics expected in Rome this year for the Church’s jubilee celebrations, concerns over the pope’s long-term ability to lead have resurfaced. While Francis has brushed off speculation about stepping down, his ongoing health battles may force further delegation of duties to senior Vatican officials.

For now, as the pontiff battles yet another major health scare, the Vatican—and the world—watches anxiously, hoping he can overcome this latest challenge.