Pope Francis has been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia as his respiratory infection ‘continues to present a complex picture’, The Vatican have said. 

The 88-year-old Pontiff has suffered with a respiratory infection for over a week and was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14.

The Vatican said Francis’ respiratory infection also involves asthmatic bronchitis, which required the use of cortisone antibiotic treatment.

In their latest update, a spokesperson said: ‘Laboratory tests, chest X-ray, and the Holy Father’s clinical condition continue to present a complex picture.’

They added that the Holy Father remained in good spirits and was thankful for prayers for his recovery.

The Vatican City cancelled this weekend’s papal audiences and delegated others to step as the Pope remains in hospital.

Earlier today, he was said to be in a ‘stable’ condition and does not have a fever after being admitted to hospital with bronchitis last week.

Despite this, his current bout in hospital has already surpassed a previous hospitalisation for pneumonia in 2023.