Pope in ‘complex’ condition after bilateral pneumonia diagnosis

Pope Francis after being hospitalized for bronchitis in Rome on Friday has now been diagnosed with double pneumonia.

On Tuesday afternoon, the pope underwent a chest CT scan, which indicated the onset of bilateral pneumonia. Treatment will include “additional pharmacological therapy.”

Pope Francis’ condition remains “complex,” but he “remains in good spirits,” reported the Vatican in a statement Tuesday.

“Laboratory tests, chest X-rays and the clinical condition of the Holy Father continue to present a complex picture.”

He has a "polymicrobial infection, which has arisen in the context of bronchiectasis and asthmatic bronchitis, and has required the use of corticosteroid and antibiotics, makes the therapeutic treatment more complex.”

“Nevertheless, Pope Francis remains in good spirits.”

Despite his medical condition, the 88-year-old is able to spend his time reading and in prayer. He asks for the public to continue praying for him.

"The Pope had a quiet night. He rested. This morning he had breakfast and read some newspapers,” said the Vatican.