Pope Francis remains hospitalized in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where his condition is reported as stable with slight improvement in inflammatory markers.
The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted last Friday due to respiratory issues, later diagnosed as bilateral pneumonia within a complex medical context.
Positive Signs Amid Health Concerns
As reported by 20Minutos, the Vatican’s latest medical update reassured that Pope Francis continues to recover.
He has been able to get out of bed, breathe independently, and even engage in light work.
"After breakfast, the Pope read some newspapers and worked with his closest collaborators," the Vatican statement said.
Additionally, he received the Eucharist before having a private 20-minute meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who later commented, "We joked as always. He hasn’t lost his legendary sense of humor."
Medical Treatment and Ongoing Challenges
While the pontiff’s condition has improved slightly, doctors remain cautious.
His pneumonia requires additional drug therapy, alongside antibiotics and cortisone, due to complications from preexisting bronchiectasis and asthmatic bronchitis.
Despite the challenges, Pope Francis has received an outpouring of support from the public. Outside the hospital, families of pediatric oncology patients have sent him drawings and messages, while pilgrims continue to gather in prayer.
For now, the Vatican has not provided a timeline for his discharge, but officials remain hopeful about his recovery.
