On Friday, Feb. 14, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis had been hospitalized at Gemelli Hospital with bronchitis. He had fallen ill in early February with a chest infection, and as the symptoms progressed, it became clear that emergency medical attention was needed. Upon his arrival, doctors revealed the illness to be a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection. According to AP News, this means that there are several types of bacteria, fungi, or other microbial life growing in Francis’ lungs. These types of infections are reportedly relatively easy to treat, and initially, doctors were not especially worried. However, the Vatican stated on Tuesday, Feb. 18 that a chest scan revealed that the infection had developed into pneumonia in both lungs.
Cleveland Clinic states that pneumonia is the progression of a respiratory infection in which the lungs become inflamed and filled with fluid. Pneumonia is dangerous to anyone who may catch it, but it can be especially life-threatening to anybody over the age of 65. It is also especially dangerous for people who have preexisting conditions, and many have expressed concern over the fact that the 88 year old pope has been mostly reliant on a wheelchair for a few years. On top of this, he had a portion of his right lung removed years ago, spiking more worry over the treatability of his condition. However, the doctors responsible for the pope’s treatment have not expressed much concern over the missing piece of lung.
The citizens of Rome are worried, yet hopeful for the pope. Many have left flowers, candles, and well-wishes on his statue, and children being treated at Gemelli Hospital have been leaving “get well soon” drawings for him. According to AP News, most Vatican business has been put on pause while the pope is ill. Weekly audiences, Sunday blessings, and Vatican Holy Year events have been canceled. It is not entirely clear when normal business will resume, as it is also not entirely clear when Francis will be discharged.
The main thing that doctors are looking out for is a decline in his condition, which, as of Friday, Feb. 21, has not occurred. Despite the diagnosis, the Vatican has stated that the pope has remained in high spirits. According to AP News, one Vatican official reported that Pope Francis has gotten out of bed, eaten breakfast, and even done some work from bed every day of his hospital stay, which is definitely a good sign. The pope is not expected to be discharged from the hospital any time soon, as treatment will be complex and lengthy. However, due to his activity and high spirits, his doctors are remaining optimistic.
