Pope Francis, who is 88 years old, remains hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli Hospital as his doctors adjust his treatment plan to manage a 'complex clinical situation,' as stated by the Vatican on Monday.

The pontiff has been suffering from a respiratory tract infection for more than a week and was admitted to the hospital last Friday.

The Vatican's announcement highlighted that test results have revealed a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory system, leading to changes in the pope's treatment.

The condition deemed 'complex' requires an extended hospital stay, but the Vatican has assured that Pope Francis is stable and shows no fever.

In spite of his hospitalization, the pope is actively connecting with communities, including maintaining contact with Gaza's sole Catholic parish.

Local priest Father Gabriel Romanelli shared that during a video call, Pope Francis conveyed that while he feels tired, he remains optimistic, stating, 'A few days (in hospital) and I'll be back.' Romanelli described the pontiff as 'not an easy patient for doctors,' referencing his ongoing communication.

On Monday, Pope Francis continued to work and review documents while in the hospital.

Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni did not specify whether the infection's underlying cause is bacterial or viral.

Bacterial infections are generally treated with antibiotics, while viral infections require supportive care as they do not respond to antibiotics.

A polymicrobial infection involves various microorganisms and can originate from bacterial, viral, or fungal sources.

Rev. Dr. Andrea Vicini, a Jesuit priest and medical doctor, clarified that the term polymicrobial is broad and does not specify the exact nature of the infection affecting the pope.

He noted that recent reports of the pope having breakfast indicate that his health is sufficient for digestion and does not require respiratory assistance.

Pope Francis, who has been the pontiff since 2013, has encountered various health challenges in recent years, including episodes of influenza and respiratory issues.

In his earlier years, he developed pleurisy and underwent surgery to remove part of one lung.

His latest hospitalization has led to the cancellation of his weekly audience in St. Peter's Square and a special Mass for artists celebrating the Catholic Church's Jubilee Year.

Visitors to the Vatican have expressed their hopes for the pope’s swift recovery.

Rev. Tyler Carter, a Catholic priest from the United States, stated, 'We certainly wish for him to get better very quickly. He is our father and our shepherd, and so we want his continued health and blessing.'