Pope Francis at 88 has developed pneumonia in both lungs, the Vatican announced Tuesday. Doctors discovered the infection after running new tests, and he is now receiving cortisone antibiotic treatment.

The Vatican also said Francis’ illness includes asthmatic bronchitis, making his condition more complicated.

“The Holy Father’s clinical condition continues to present a complex picture,” Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said.

Inspite of his illness, the pope remains in good spirits and is grateful for prayers, Bruni added.

Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday after struggling with bronchitis for a week.

On Monday, doctors confirmed that he had a serious respiratory infection caused by multiple bacteria and viruses. A follow-up CT scan then showed the pneumonia.

Pneumonia is a severe lung infection that can worsen quickly. The treatments depend on the severity and can include oxygen therapy, IV fluids, and strong medications.

The Vatican has not said how long Francis will remain in the hospital, only that his condition requires a proper recovery period.

The pope is still following some of his daily activities. He read the newspaper on Tuesday and even made his usual call to a Catholic parish in Gaza.

However, some Vatican events have been canceled, including his Wednesday general audience and his planned ordination of deacons on Sunday.

Based on research, Pope Francis has a history of lung issues. As a young man, he had part of one lung removed due to an infection, and he often suffers from bronchitis during the winter.

Despite his doctors’ advice to rest, he continued with a busy schedule, even attending an outdoor Mass in Rome’s cold weather on Feb. 9.

His hospital stay this time has already lasted longer than a similar pneumonia-related hospitalization in 2023.