Gemelli Hospital
What is the current health status of Pope Francis and how is he managing during his hospitalization?
Pope Francis is currently being treated for pneumonia in both lungs at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, but his condition is stable. According to reports, he slept well, got up this morning, had breakfast, and is even able to sit in an armchair. He is breathing on his own without heart problems. Despite being hospitalized, the Pope remains engaged with his duties, reviewing and signing documents. He's under strict doctor's orders to rest with no visitors permitted. Meanwhile, people have begun gathering outside the hospital, leaving tributes and holding vigils, including heartfelt get-well messages from around the world including the United States.
Watch clip answer (00:51m)What is dabo pneumonia (double pneumonia) and how does it affect the lungs?
Dabo pneumonia, or double pneumonia, is an infection that affects both lungs simultaneously. It works by inflaming the air sacs in the lungs (alveoli), causing them to fill up with fluid or pus. This inflammation and fluid buildup makes breathing difficult and can be particularly serious, especially for elderly patients like the 88-year-old Pope Francis. The condition has complicated the Pope's recovery, requiring hospitalization and likely more intensive treatment. Double pneumonia is generally more severe than pneumonia affecting only one lung, as it reduces oxygen capacity across the entire respiratory system.
Watch clip answer (00:18m)What is Pope Francis's current health condition?
Pope Francis, 88, is currently hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli Hospital after being admitted last Friday for bronchitis. According to the Vatican, his laboratory tests and chest X-rays present a complex medical picture, suggesting a serious respiratory condition. The description indicates he's dealing with double pneumonia, an inflammation affecting both lungs. Despite the complexity of his condition, the Vatican reports that the Pope continues to be in good spirits. His public engagements have been canceled as he undergoes treatment for this significant respiratory illness.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)