Pope Francis, seen in Singapore last September, previously suffered from severe pneumonia and had a portion of one lung removed. Getty Images
Pope Francis is showing signs of improvement after being diagnosed with pneumonia, the Vatican confirmed. He continues to have no fever and has been able to carry out light work. On Thursday morning, he received the Eucharist and spent time with his closest aides.
A Vatican spokesperson said the pope’s heart remains strong, and he is responding well to treatment. He is breathing on his own but receiving oxygen.
Francis was hospitalized last week due to ongoing lung-related health issues. Medical tests revealed pneumonia in both lungs, following an earlier diagnosis of a “polymicrobial infection” in his respiratory tract. Officials described his condition as “complex” but stable.
On Wednesday, his health showed slight improvement, according to the Vatican. Blood tests indicated a decrease in inflammation. By Thursday, he was able to sit in a chair for breakfast, similar to the previous day when he also read newspapers and completed some work.
A source said the pope remains in the hospital with close aides by his side. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited him and later said he was “alert and in good spirits.” She added, “We joked as always. He hasn’t lost his humor.”
A Challenging Health Situation
The Vatican reassured the public that despite his pneumonia, Francis remains in “good spirits.” Worshipers worldwide have expressed concern and are praying for his recovery.
“We want him to get better quickly,” said Rev. Tyler Carter, a U.S. priest. “He is our father and shepherd.” In Argentina, his home country, a special mass will be held on Monday for his health.
Doctors have adjusted the pope’s treatment as his condition changes. The Vatican explained that his respiratory infection led to new medications. They also confirmed that his hospitalization will continue until doctors are sure he has fully recovered.
“He is grateful for the support and prayers,” the Vatican said. “He asks that everyone continues to pray for him.”
Polymicrobial infections, like the one affecting Francis, involve a mix of viruses, bacteria, or fungi. These infections can be complex and require specialized care.
Rest and Recovery
Despite his illness, Francis has continued some duties. During his first two days in the hospital, he made phone calls, including one to priests in Gaza, checking on their situation.
Father Gabriel Romanelli, one of the priests he spoke to, noticed that the pope sounded more tired than usual. “He told us, ‘I have to take care of myself,’” Romanelli said. “But his voice was clear, and he listened to us well.”
Due to his illness, the pope did not lead Sunday’s Angelus prayer. This is only the second time he has missed it in nearly 12 years.
Francis was admitted to a hospital in Rome last week for respiratory issues. His doctors ordered complete rest, and all his public events remain canceled until at least Saturday.
The pope has had past lung issues, including a severe case of pneumonia in his youth, which led to part of his lung being removed. In recent months, he has also suffered falls and has been using a wheelchair due to mobility issues.
