The respiratory infection that led to the hospitalization of Pope Francis exhibits a "complex clinical picture," necessitating the pontiff's continued stay at the Gemelli hospital in Rome. This was reported by the Ansa news agency, citing Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni.
Results from tests conducted over the past few days revealed that the 88-year-old leader of the Roman Catholic Church is suffering from a "polymicrobial respiratory infection." This required a change in treatment.
The Vatican spokesperson's statement did not specify how much longer Pope Francis will remain in the hospital. It only noted that the severity of the symptoms "requires an adequate (in terms of time — ed.) stay in the clinic."
Pope Francis was hospitalized last Friday, and at that time his condition was assessed as stable. On the advice of doctors, he did not participate in the Sunday prayer at the Vatican, opting instead to issue a written statement.
In a message yesterday, the Holy See Press Office mentioned some improvement in the pontiff's condition.
On Sunday, February 9, the Pope was unable to finish his sermon due to breathing difficulties.