Pope Francis has been hospitalized battling a complex respiratory infection that includes pneumonia in both lungs, bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, and chronic bronchitis. His medical team says he’s not out of danger but his condition isn’t life-threatening. The 88-year-old pontiff is receiving oxygen supplements when needed and responding to drug therapy.
According to Dr. Sergio Alfieri, a hospital doctor who visited Francis’ suite, the pope remains in good spirits and humor. He told reporters that Francis is “not in a life-threatening situation” and added that he’s been “very generous” despite his illness, unlike most 88-year-old people who would rather stay home.
Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14 after worsening bronchitis symptoms. His doctors prescribed him absolute rest but later diagnosed pneumonia and multiple infections in addition to chronic bronchitis. The pope is also fighting a multipronged infection caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi in his respiratory tract.
However, despite the severity of his illness, Francis’ condition isn’t expected to be fatal. Doctors said there’s no evidence that germs have entered his bloodstream, which remains their biggest concern. Sepsis is a complication that can lead to organ failure and death.
The pope is attached to no other machinery apart from supplemental oxygen through a nasal cannula when needed. His chronic bronchitis has caused permanent damage to his airways, but cortisone treatment may alleviate the symptoms.
In the best scenario, Francis will return to his residence cured of infections, but his chronic conditions will remain. There have been moments of levity during his hospital stay, including a lighthearted exchange with his doctor about confession.
Francis has shown no signs of stepping down from his position and has asserted that the job of pope is for life. He also wrote a resignation letter in 2022 in case medical problems impede him from carrying out his duties. However, there’s no provision in canon law for what to do if a pope becomes incapacitated.
Despite his health concerns, Francis continues to work during his hospital stay, including making bishop appointments. His doctors hope the condition will be temporary and that he’ll return to normal soon.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-pneumonia-hospital-b211a400c4cedc1f419d932447cfc189