Pope Francis has been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, complicating his ongoing treatment for respiratory issues, the Holy See Press Office confirmed in a Tuesday evening statement.

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Despite the severity of his condition, the Vatican reassures that the Pope “remains in good spirits.”

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The latest update follows his hospitalization last Friday for bronchitis. According to the press release, “Laboratory tests, chest X-rays, and the clinical condition of the Holy Father continue to present a complex picture.”

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Medical evaluations have identified a polymicrobial infection, which developed alongside bronchiectasis and asthmatic bronchitis. This has necessitated the use of corticosteroids and antibiotics, making the treatment process more challenging.

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“A follow-up chest CT scan, to which the Holy Father was subjected this afternoon—prescribed by the Vatican medical team and the medical staff of the ‘A. Gemelli’ Polyclinic Foundation—revealed the onset of bilateral pneumonia, requiring additional pharmacological therapy.”

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While undergoing treatment, Pope Francis has remained active in prayer and reflection. The statement noted that he “received the Eucharist and, throughout the day, alternated between rest, prayer, and reading. He expresses his gratitude for the support he feels at this time and kindly asks that prayers for him continue.”

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"The Pope spent a restful night, woke up and had breakfast," the Holy See Press Office shared in a note to journalists on Wednesday morning.

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