VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis, the 88-year-old leader of the Catholic Church, has been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia and remains hospitalized, according to CBS News. His condition, described as a "complex clinical picture," arose following a week of respiratory issues that led to his admission at Rome's Gemelli Hospital on February 14.

The Vatican reported that a follow-up chest CT scan revealed pneumonia in both lungs, necessitating a change in his drug therapy. He had initially been treated for a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract, which included symptoms of bronchitis prior to his hospitalization. While the Vatican has not specified whether the infection is bacterial or viral, it maintained that the pope's overall health requires continued medical intervention.

Despite the severity of his condition, Pope Francis is reported to be in "good spirits," having spent time resting, reading, and praying. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed that the pontiff remains stable, without fever, and is following a prescribed treatment regimen. "The laboratory tests and his clinical condition continue to present a complex picture," Bruni said.

The pope’s health challenges are compounded by his medical history; he had part of one lung removed at age 21 and has frequently experienced respiratory complications. His previous hospitalizations include treatments for similar infections and abdominal surgery in 2023. All of his public engagements have now been canceled through the weekend due to his ongoing health struggle, impacting Jubilee Year events that draw millions of pilgrims.

In a statement, the Vatican expressed gratitude for the prayers and affection sent his way, emphasizing that the pontiff feels the support from around the world. "The Holy Father feels the closeness of everyone and appreciates the many messages of affection," said a Vatican statement. For further updates on the pope’s health, marks of interest continue to grow as the situation develops.

For additional details, view the complete coverage by the BBC and Forbes.