Pope Francis in stable condition as he remains hospitalized for 'complex' respiratory infections

Pope Francis has a “polymicrobial infection” of his respiratory tract that will require his hospital treatment to be changed, the Vatican said Monday, with tests indicating a “complex clinical picture”.

The test findings indicated that the 88-year-old pontiff's treatment would require "adequate hospitalization" due to a number of lung-related medical issues.

“The results of the tests carried out in recent days and today have demonstrated a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract that has led to a further change in therapy,” the Vatican said in a statement.

“All the tests carried out to date are indicative of a complex clinical picture that will require adequate hospitalization.”

He was first brought to Policlinico Agostino Gemelli in Rome on Friday for bronchitis treatment, and early testing revealed he had a respiratory tract infection and a mild fever.

The Pope experienced bronchial symptoms for many days before being admitted last week, and he had entrusted the reading of prepared addresses at occasions to officials.

According to a Vatican statement released on Monday, the Pope is in stable condition and does not have a temperature.

“The Holy Father continues to be apyretic and is continuing the prescribed therapy,” the statement said. He received the Eucharist on Monday morning, then spent time working and reading texts.

“Pope Francis is touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he continues to receive in these hours; in particular, he wishes to address his thanks to those who are currently hospitalized, for the affection and love they express through drawings and messages of good wishes; he prays for them and asks that they pray for him,” the Vatican said.

The Vatican has postponed his audiences until at least Monday.

The pope, who had part of one lung removed as a young man due to a pulmonary illness, has been plagued by influenza and other health problems over the past two years.

He also had surgery in 2021 to treat a painful illness known as diverticulitis, and again in 2023 to repair a hernia.

The Argentine pontiff has led the Roman Catholic Church for over 12 years.

He had earlier spent three nights at the same hospital in March 2023 to treat bronchitis.

In December of the same year, he had to abandon his travel to the United Arab Emirates for the COP28 climate meeting due to another attack of sickness.