Following a diagnosis of pneumonia affecting both lungs, Pope Francis enjoyed a restful night and ate breakfast on Wednesday morning, the Vatican reported.

Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni confirmed that the Pope spent a peaceful fifth night at Rome’s Gemelli hospital. “He had a tranquil night, woke up and had breakfast,” Bruni stated.

The Vatican announced on Tuesday that Francis, who had a portion of his right lung removed in his youth, had been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia. Initial laboratory tests, chest X-rays, and the Pope’s overall condition presented a complex medical picture.

The Vatican explained on Tuesday that the polymicrobial infection, stemming from underlying bronchiectasis and asmatiform bronchitis, necessitated antibiotic and cortisone therapy, complicating treatment.

“The chest CT scan…demonstrated the onset of bilateral pneumonia requiring further pharmacological therapy,” the Vatican added.

However, the Vatican reported on Wednesday that the Pope remains in good spirits and is appreciative of the prayers for his recovery.

On Friday, the 88-year-old Francis was in “fair” condition after a week of worsening bronchitis. On Monday, the hospital identified a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection—a mix of viruses, bacteria, and potentially other organisms affecting his respiratory system.

“The follow-up chest CT scan…demonstrated the onset of bilateral pneumonia, which required additional drug therapy,” Bruni said.

Bronchitis can progress to pneumonia, a more severe lung infection affecting the air sacs. Pneumonia can impact part or all of one or both lungs, with bilateral pneumonia generally more serious due to reduced healthy lung tissue for compensation.

Treatment options vary but may include supplemental oxygen, intravenous fluids, and addressing the underlying infection.

Francis is not believed to be receiving supplemental oxygen. He has consistently eaten breakfast, read newspapers, and worked from his hospital room.

The Vatican also noted that Francis had no fever, a point noted by Rome-based infectious disease and geriatric expert Carmelo D’Asero as not necessarily positive.

“A high fever is a sign of an immune response to a pathogen,” D’Asero explained. “A low fever with a serious bronchial infection…indicates a weakened immune response, causing more concern. Perhaps a fever would have been preferable.”

The Vatican has not specified the length of the Pope’s hospital stay, only that the complex nature of his condition necessitates an “adequate” duration.