Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized for two weeks due to double pneumonia, remains in a stable condition, according to the Vatican.
In its latest update on Saturday, the Holy See confirmed that the 88-year-old pontiff has not experienced a recurrence of the breathing difficulties reported the previous day.
Despite still requiring oxygen support, Pope Francis is free of fever, alert, and engaged in prayer.
He has been able to eat, and his vital signs, including blood flow parameters, are stable.
The Vatican also noted that he does not have leukocytosis, a condition marked by an elevated white blood cell count, which often signals infection.
“The clinical conditions of the Holy Father have remained stable,” the Vatican stated, while maintaining that his prognosis remained “reserved.”
A Difficult Recovery Process
The leader of nearly 1.4 billion Catholics was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 with bronchitis, which later worsened into pneumonia affecting both lungs.
Last weekend, the Vatican disclosed that his condition had reached a critical stage, with a severe respiratory attack necessitating blood transfusions, sparking widespread concern.
Although reports throughout the week indicated gradual improvements, Friday brought more troubling news.
The Vatican revealed that Pope Francis had suffered a bronchospasm episode, which led to vomiting and the inhalation of fluids, causing a “sudden worsening of the respiratory picture.”
His doctors emphasized that the following 24 to 48 hours would be crucial in assessing any potential deterioration.
Professor Andrea Ungar, a geriatrics specialist at the University of Florence, explained that inhaling vomit could exacerbate pneumonia.
“Aggravating the pneumonia,” he said, often requires intensified treatment, including stronger antibiotics, ventilation support, and respiratory therapy.
Given his condition, the pontiff is expected to remain in the hospital for a considerable period. “At least 10 days” would be the best-case scenario, Ungar estimated.
A World in Prayer
Supporters from across the globe have been keeping Pope Francis in their thoughts and prayers.
Pilgrims continue to gather outside the Gemelli Hospital, undeterred by the rain, lighting candles and praying at the foot of a statue of former Pope John Paul II.
“I’m very sad,” said Assunta Pandolfi, a retiree from Rome, though she expressed confidence in the Pope’s eventual recovery. Nearby, a group of nuns prayed for him, while well-wishers left handwritten messages, colorful posters made by children, and balloons with his image.
“The whole world is worried,” observed Cristina Funaro, pointing to the presence of media crews from various countries stationed outside the hospital.
Extended Absence Fuels Speculation
Though continuing to work from his suite on the hospital’s 10th floor, Pope Francis’ prolonged absence from public view has reignited discussions about his ability to fulfill his demanding role.
He has not been seen in public since the day of his hospitalization, marking his fourth hospital stay since 2021 and the longest one yet.
For the third consecutive Sunday, he will miss delivering his weekly Angelus prayer, with the Vatican announcing that only a written message will be released in its place.
The Pope’s health struggles have been mounting over the years. Having had part of a lung removed in his youth, he is prone to respiratory illnesses.
In 2021, he underwent colon surgery, followed by a hernia operation in 2023. Persistent hip and knee pain have also made mobility difficult, often requiring him to use a wheelchair.
While Pope Francis has kept the possibility of resignation open, following the precedent set by his predecessor, Benedict XVI, he has repeatedly stated that the time for such a decision has not arrived—and perhaps never will.
However, given his advanced age and ongoing health challenges, medical experts caution that his road to recovery will not be swift.
With the Church gearing up for the Jubilee Holy Year, a massive event anticipated to draw millions of pilgrims to Rome—his ability to manage the physically demanding schedule remains a significant concern.
