Pope Francis Battles Pneumonia as Vatican Continues Holy Year Celebrations

 

The Vatican proceeded with its Holy Year celebrations on Saturday, despite Pope Francis remaining hospitalized due to a severe respiratory infection and pneumonia. Doctors warn that his condition is still critical, with the primary concern being the risk of sepsis—a serious blood infection that could be life-threatening.

 

According to Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni, the 88-year-old pope slept well overnight. However, his personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, emphasized that his condition remains delicate and could worsen quickly.

 

Francis, who has a history of lung disease, was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 after a prolonged bout of bronchitis escalated into pneumonia. His medical team diagnosed a complex viral, bacterial, and fungal infection affecting both lungs. He is currently receiving antibiotics, cortisone treatment, and oxygen support when necessary.

 

Doctors revealed that Francis initially resisted hospitalization, choosing to remain at the Vatican for official duties. He was under the care of a cardiologist and infectious disease specialist before his condition deteriorated.

 

Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine at Gemelli, warned that if the infection spreads into the bloodstream, it could lead to organ failure and be extremely difficult to treat given the pope’s age and respiratory issues.

 

Meanwhile, deacons gathered at the Vatican for a special Jubilee weekend, part of the Holy Year festivities that occur once every 25 years. Pope Francis was originally scheduled to preside over the celebrations, but his role will now be taken over by the Holy Year organizer.

 

For the second consecutive weekend, Francis is expected to miss his traditional Sunday noon blessing, which he could have delivered from the hospital if his health had improved.

 

Despite his absence, many attendees expressed their support. Luis Arnaldo Lopez Quirindongo, a deacon from Puerto Rico, said, “Even though he’s not physically here, we know he is with us in spirit.”

 

Doctors stress that the pope’s recovery will take time and that he will have to manage his chronic respiratory condition even after returning to the Vatican.