The Swiss Guards who protect Pope Francis are currently under a curfew as they prepare for his funeral, signifying the gravity of his situation as the 88-year-old pontiff has shared concerns about his battle with pneumonia, according to a report in the Swiss newspaper Blick.
The Pope has reportedly made preparations for his tomb, deviating from tradition in terms of location and coffin design. He was recently hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital due to severe chest pain, despite initially resisting leaving the Vatican for several days. His medical team diagnosed him with a complex respiratory infection, including pneumonia and asthmatic bronchitis, for which he is receiving cortisone antibiotics.
The Vatican has confirmed the diagnosis, highlighting the intricacy of Pope Francis’ health condition, especially considering his prior history of a partial lung removal. A recent statement from the Vatican mentioned a slight improvement in the Pope's health based on recent blood tests.
According to Politico, sources close to the pontiff have shared that he has expressed doubts about his survival, indicating that he may not overcome his current health crisis this time.
