Pope Francis, currently hospitalized for treatment of double pneumonia, is reportedly “not yet out of danger,” as per the statements from his medical team. One of the attending physicians indicated that the pontiff will remain in the hospital throughout the next week.

At 88 years old, the pope’s condition is stable, but he continues to battle a chronic illness, according to Dr. Sergio Alfieri, a general surgeon at Rome’s Gemelli University Hospital. “Is he out of danger? No. However, if you’re asking if he is facing a life-threatening situation, then the answer is also ‘no’,” Alfieri clarified. He mentioned that Francis is fully aware of the gravity of his health status, noting, “The pope is cognizant of the seriousness of this situation.”

Last Friday, Francis was admitted after experiencing bronchitis symptoms for over a week. Further examination revealed a combination of a respiratory infection and pneumonia affecting both of his lungs, a diagnosis that complicates his treatment plan.

Dr. Alfieri reported that the pope is in “good spirits” and even took time on Friday to pray in the hospital chapel. While he has managed to attend to some work, his health may fluctuate daily, necessitating his continued stay in the hospital at least until the end of next week.

The pontiff is currently on a “significant” regimen of medications and will not be discharged until he is completely recovered. Alfieri emphasized the need for the pope to focus on his health, cautioning that returning home too soon would likely lead to a rapid return to his demanding schedule. “We need to prioritize getting through this critical phase… he is not someone who easily gives up,” he stated.

Dr. Alfieri described the pope as a “fragile patient,” acknowledging his past health issues. However, he reassured that Francis is not reliant on any life-support machinery, occasionally using a nasal cannula for supplemental oxygen but otherwise breathing independently and able to eat on his own.

He confirmed that the pope does not have sepsis—a serious condition that can arise from infections that attack the body’s own organs—but cautioned that there remains a risk of the infection spreading.

Pope Francis underwent lung surgery in his early 20s while studying to become a priest in Argentina, which contributes to his current health status.

Prior to his hospitalization, the pope had an intense workload, particularly related to the ongoing Catholic jubilee year.

In March 2023, he was previously admitted with pneumonia, and in June 2021, he underwent a colon surgery. He has frequently been seen utilizing a wheelchair or walking stick due to issues stemming from sciatic nerve pain and knee complications.