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The Catholic world is closely watching Pope Francis’s situation at Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where he is being treated for several health concerns.
Here’s a summary of the Pope’s health status, along with expert opinions on the vulnerability of older individuals to respiratory illnesses.
Overview of Health Issues
The Pope was hospitalized for , a viral infection causing lung inflammation and breathing difficulties. During his stay, he that necessitated continued medical care, and shortly after, , according to the Vatican.
Over the weekend of February 22, the Pope experienced an requiring oxygen support. The Vatican also reported that he following a diagnosis of low platelet levels, which are essential for blood clotting.
These combined health problems have , including the cancellation of Sunday prayers. However, doctors recently that he is alert, engaging in humor, and continuing his work, while also from supporters globally.
On February 23, officials that Pope Francis’s blood tests showed indications of minor kidney problems, but the condition was “under control.” Further testing on February 24 .
“The Pope’s situation is not unusual: he has a good day, followed by a secondary infection and a setback,” explains Dr. Panagis Galiatsatos, a pulmonary and critical care specialist at Johns Hopkins. “The Pope’s case highlights the vulnerability of older adults.”
Respiratory Infection Risks in Seniors
Respiratory infections pose a significant threat to older individuals due to weakened immune systems that struggle to combat viruses and bacteria. Their response to vaccines for common infections, such as influenza, is also less effective. Furthermore, lung stiffness and weakened breathing muscles associated with aging make breathing more difficult. “This decline reduces their ability to recover from infection,” says Galiatsatos. “Coupled with a weaker immune system, this creates a ‘perfect storm’ of vulnerability. Viruses that most people can overcome can severely affect older adults.”
The Pope’s respiratory vulnerability may be heightened due to a severe bout of pneumonia he experienced as a young man, , resulting in reduced respiratory capacity.
Older individuals often have co-existing health conditions like heart issues, diabetes, and – like the Pope – impaired kidney function, which can worsen infections. “Respiratory infections affect more than just the lungs; the body’s response is systemic,” says Galiatsatos. “If the body is also managing heart disease or diabetes, its response will be less effective.” Many older adults are also inactive and malnourished, further increasing their health risks when facing infections.
Rapid Progression of Combined Infections
While younger people can often recover from respiratory infections in a few days, older individuals with weaker immune systems are more susceptible to secondary viral or bacterial infections, as happened with the Pope. If upper airway infections persist due to a poor immune response, they can spread to the lower airways, causing pneumonia. “Lower airway infections are typically more serious because they affect the alveoli, the lung tissue essential for oxygenation,” says Dr. Andrew Meltzer, an emergency medicine professor at George Washington University. Many older adults with influenza or other viruses can develop pneumonia if they do not rest and receive antiviral treatment.
“These secondary infections occur because the lungs are not sterile,” says Galiatsatos. When a weakened immune system is fighting an infection, it leaves the body’s existing bacteria in the lungs and gut unchecked, allowing them to become active.
Protecting Older Adults
The best way to protect older adults from respiratory illnesses is to minimize their exposure to disease-causing viruses and bacteria. For example, avoid visiting elderly loved ones when you are sick, or wear a mask if you must visit. Ensuring good ventilation and regularly cleaning or replacing air filters in their homes is also important. Galiatsatos and Meltzer also emphasize the importance of keeping older adults up to date on their vaccinations. Although their response to vaccines may be weaker, vaccines can strengthen their immune systems and reduce the severity of viral infections.
“It’s crucial for everyone to practice proper infection control around older adults,” Galiatsatos advises.
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