Doctors have modified Pope Francis' treatment plan to address what they describe as a "complex clinical situation" related to his ongoing respiratory tract infection, the Vatican announced. The 88-year-old pontiff has been battling the infection for over a week and was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on Friday.
Recent tests revealed a polymicrobial infection, meaning it involves multiple microorganisms, potentially bacteria, viruses, or fungi. This discovery prompted changes to his therapy to better combat the condition. "The results of the tests carried out in recent days and today have demonstrated a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract, which has led to a further modification of the therapy," the Vatican said in a statement.
The statement also noted that the test results reflect a "complex clinical picture" requiring continued hospitalization for as long as necessary.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni reassured the public that Pope Francis remains "in good spirits." While the Vatican did not disclose whether the infection is bacterial or viral, Bruni mentioned that further updates would be provided later today.
The distinction between bacterial and viral infections is significant, as bacterial infections can often be treated with antibiotics, whereas viral infections typically require supportive care to reduce symptoms like fever and aid the body's immune response.
A polymicrobial infection occurs when two or more microorganisms are involved, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment. Doctors continue to monitor the pope's condition closely to ensure the effectiveness of the revised treatment regimen.
Francis, who has been pontiff since 2013, has experienced influenza and other health issues multiple times over the past two years. As a young adult, he developed pleurisy and had part of one lung removed, leaving him susceptible to lung infections.
The Vatican confirmed the cancellation of the pope's weekly audience in St Peter's Square, scheduled for Wednesday, due to his ongoing hospitalization. Doctors had previously advised complete rest, preventing Francis from delivering his regular Sunday prayer or leading a special Mass for artists to commemorate the Catholic Church's Jubilee Year.
Recent tests revealed a polymicrobial infection, meaning it involves multiple microorganisms, potentially bacteria, viruses, or fungi. This discovery prompted changes to his therapy to better combat the condition. "The results of the tests carried out in recent days and today have demonstrated a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract, which has led to a further modification of the therapy," the Vatican said in a statement.
The statement also noted that the test results reflect a "complex clinical picture" requiring continued hospitalization for as long as necessary.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni reassured the public that Pope Francis remains "in good spirits." While the Vatican did not disclose whether the infection is bacterial or viral, Bruni mentioned that further updates would be provided later today.
The distinction between bacterial and viral infections is significant, as bacterial infections can often be treated with antibiotics, whereas viral infections typically require supportive care to reduce symptoms like fever and aid the body's immune response.
A polymicrobial infection occurs when two or more microorganisms are involved, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment. Doctors continue to monitor the pope's condition closely to ensure the effectiveness of the revised treatment regimen.
Francis, who has been pontiff since 2013, has experienced influenza and other health issues multiple times over the past two years. As a young adult, he developed pleurisy and had part of one lung removed, leaving him susceptible to lung infections.
The Vatican confirmed the cancellation of the pope's weekly audience in St Peter's Square, scheduled for Wednesday, due to his ongoing hospitalization. Doctors had previously advised complete rest, preventing Francis from delivering his regular Sunday prayer or leading a special Mass for artists to commemorate the Catholic Church's Jubilee Year.
