Pope Francis has been diagnosed with a "polymicrobial respiratory tract infection," according to announcements from the Vatican. This type of infection occurs when several types of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, simultaneously infect a part of the body. In the case of the respiratory tract, these infections can affect the lungs, bronchi, or trachea, making breathing difficult and increasing the risk of complications.
Manuel Ángel Martínez, head of Pulmonology at San Agustín Hospital in Avilés, explained that this condition is likely caused by more than one germ, as "polymicrobial means many, several germs." He noted that there are bacteria that can affect differently and that the immune response varies between younger and older individuals, such as in the case of the Pope.
The medical team of the Supreme Pontiff has adjusted his treatment after becoming aware of the diagnosis. According to Dr. Martínez, this treatment could take between 8 and 12 days to take effect, which is a typical timeframe for a person in the circumstances of the Pope and with an infection as described in the medical report. The diagnosis of a polymicrobial infection is made through laboratory tests that detect the presence of multiple microorganisms in the body, including blood, sputum, urine, or affected tissue cultures, as well as molecular and serological analyses.
The treatment of this condition is complex and usually requires a combination of antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, or other specific medications, depending on the identified pathogens. Hospitalization is necessary in these cases for constant monitoring and the administration of intravenous medications, which are fundamental to ensuring the patient's recovery.
Pope Francis is in a more delicate situation due to his advanced age, which weakens his immune response, and his history of previous respiratory illnesses, such as bronchitis and pneumonia. This increases the risk of complications, such as respiratory failure or sepsis, which could slow his recovery and require strict medical supervision. The medical team is implementing all necessary measures to stabilize his health, given that the 87-year-old Supreme Pontiff has been hospitalized since last Friday.