Pope Francis is making progress in his recovery from pneumonia, with the Vatican reporting that he had breakfast outside of bed on Thursday morning following a restful night at Rome’s Gemelli hospital. This marks his sixth consecutive night of stable condition, according to Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni.
Bruni provided an update on the 88-year-old pontiff’s health, revealing that recent blood tests indicated a slight improvement in inflammation markers. Francis, who has a history of respiratory issues and previously battled an acute case of pneumonia in 2023, remains under medical supervision, particularly given the heightened risks posed by winter infections.
On Wednesday, Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni became the first high-profile visitor to meet with the pope during his hospital stay. After their 20-minute conversation, she noted that Francis appeared to be in good spirits, even displaying his characteristic sense of humor.
The pope was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after his bronchitis worsened. Medical evaluations later confirmed pneumonia in both lungs, along with a polymicrobial respiratory infection—a complex mix of bacterial, viral, and other pathogens. He is currently undergoing treatment with antibiotics and cortisone to manage his condition, which doctors have also classified as asthmatic bronchitis.
Despite his resilient heart, Francis faces additional health challenges. His limited mobility, reliance on a wheelchair due to knee issues, and a past lung surgery have made him particularly vulnerable to complications. His medical team remains cautious, as pneumonia in elderly patients often presents difficulties in clearing fluid from the lungs. The pope himself has acknowledged that he is not always the most cooperative patient, adding a layer of complexity to his recovery process.
For now, the Vatican remains optimistic, with signs of progress suggesting that the pope is gradually regaining strength. His condition continues to be closely monitored as the world watches and prays for his full recovery.
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