ROME – Pope Francis is experiencing a “slightly improving” clinical condition, according to a statement from the Vatican on Thursday. The 88-year-old pontiff is currently hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he was admitted last Friday for bronchitis that later developed into pneumonia affecting both lungs.
The Vatican reported that the Pope is without fever and that his vital signs remain stable. In a hopeful sign, the Pope received the Eucharist earlier in the day and continued to engage in work activities from his hospital room.
Pope Francis welcomed a visit from Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday, who described him as being in good spirits and noted that he retains his “proverbial sense of humor.”
This marks the fourth time the Argentine pope has been hospitalized at Gemelli. His previous admissions include a 2021 colon surgery and treatment for a respiratory infection in 2023, from which he was discharged after three days. Just months later, he underwent abdominal surgery for a hernia.
Concerns about the Pope’s health have intensified, prompting speculation regarding the future of his papacy and the possibility of his resignation. As the global community watches closely, the Vatican remains hopeful for a swift recovery.
