Pope undergoes treatment for respiratory infection, remains hospitalized

The 88-year-old pope has been diagnosed with a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection, though no further details have been provided regarding the seriousness of his illness or any changes to his ongoing treatment, according to reports.

In simple terms, a polymicrobial infection occurs when a mix of bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites are present in the lungs.

Dr Maor Sauler, an expert in adult pulmonary and critical care medicine at Yale University, cited in an Associated Press report, explained that such infections often start with something like bronchitis or a respiratory infection, which can progress into more severe lung complications.