Pope Francis’ health is stable, and he remains deeply touched by the outpouring of messages expressing affection and support, the Vatican has confirmed.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday for a respiratory tract infection, is undergoing continued medical supervision.
On Monday, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni stated that recent tests indicated a "polymicrobial respiratory tract infection," necessitating further adjustments to his medication, reports Sky News.
Such infections, caused by a combination of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites, present a "complex clinical picture," requiring an extended hospital stay, though no precise timeframe has been provided.
Despite his condition, the Vatican noted that Pope Francis "read and worked" on Monday morning and extended his gratitude to those who had sent well wishes.
He particularly acknowledged messages from fellow hospital patients, saying he was moved by the drawings and good wishes they had shared.
The pontiff had been battling bronchitis for over a week before his hospitalisation.
Determined to complete his morning audiences, he insisted on fulfilling his engagements on Friday before departing for medical care.
His doctors have advised complete rest, leading to the cancellation of his scheduled Sunday prayer in St Peter’s Square and a special mass for artists marking the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year.
On social media over the weekend, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude, writing: "Thank you for the affection, prayer and closeness with which you accompany me in these days."
The Vatican has not specified whether the infection is viral or bacterial, but officials reaffirmed that the pontiff’s condition is stable, even as medical complexities necessitate continued hospitalisation.
