Pope Francis, who has been battling double pneumonia for two weeks, is now in a stable condition with no recurrence of the severe breathing crisis that alarmed the world, the Vatican announced on Saturday.
The 88-year-old pontiff, while still receiving oxygen, is showing signs of recovery—he has no fever, remains alert, and has been eating and praying, according to the Holy See’s latest evening update. His vital signs, including blood circulation parameters, remain stable, and he does not exhibit leukocytosis, a condition that often signals infection. However, officials maintain that his prognosis remains “reserved,” underscoring the cautious optimism surrounding his condition.
Pope Francis was initially hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 for bronchitis, but his condition worsened, progressing into pneumonia in both lungs. Last weekend, Vatican officials revealed that the Holy Father was in critical condition after suffering a severe respiratory attack, requiring urgent blood transfusions.
Although updates throughout the week indicated gradual improvement, Friday’s news sent another wave of concern. The pope experienced a sudden crisis of bronchospasm, leading to vomiting and the inhalation of stomach contents, which briefly worsened his respiratory condition. Medical experts warned that such an incident could exacerbate pneumonia, requiring increased antibiotic treatment, respiratory therapy, and close monitoring over the next 24 to 48 hours to assess further risks.
Professor Andrea Ungar, a leading geriatric specialist from the University of Florence, explained that the pontiff’s condition likely required reinforced antibiotics, ventilation support, and respiratory exercises. He also estimated that, in the best-case scenario, Francis could require at least ten more days in the hospital before being discharged.
The pope’s health crisis has drawn immense concern from Catholics and non-Catholics alike. Pilgrims have been flocking to Gemelli Hospital, lighting candles, offering prayers, and leaving heartfelt messages.
“I’m deeply saddened,” said Assunta Pandolfi, a Roman retiree, expressing her faith that Pope Francis will recover. Nearby, a group of nuns recited prayers, while children’s handwritten notes and balloons bearing the pope’s image decorated the hospital’s entrance.
“The whole world is worried,” said Cristina Funaro, observing the throng of international media stationed outside the hospital, underscoring the global significance of the pope’s condition.
Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis has continued to fulfill some of his papal duties from his private suite on Gemelli’s 10th floor. However, his prolonged absence from the public eye has reignited speculation about his ability to lead the Catholic Church.
Sunday will mark the third consecutive weekend that Francis will miss his weekly Angelus prayer, with the Vatican instead publishing a written address.
The Jesuit pope has faced escalating health challenges in recent years. Having had part of his lung removed in his youth, he is prone to respiratory illnesses. Since 2021, he has undergone colon surgery, a hernia operation, and suffers from chronic knee and hip pain, often requiring a wheelchair.
Francis has openly stated that he would consider resigning if his health no longer allowed him to effectively lead the Church, following the precedent set by Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned in 2013. However, before his hospitalization, he emphasized that such a decision was not imminent—and might never be.
With the Catholic Church preparing for the 2025 Jubilee Holy Year, expected to attract millions of pilgrims to Rome, Francis’s health remains a crucial concern for the Vatican and the global faithful. While his condition appears to be stabilizing, medical experts caution that full recovery will take time, and the coming days will be critical in determining whether the 88-year-old pontiff can return to his demanding papal duties.
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