Pope Francis entered his seventh day hospitalized Friday as the 88-year-old pontiff continues treatment for pneumonia and a multifaceted respiratory infection. Vatican updates confirm slight clinical improvement but emphasize recovery could take weeks given his age and medical history.
Francis remains under absolute rest orders after being diagnosed with asthmatic bronchitis compounded by bacterial/viral pneumonia. Doctors stress his strong heart but note heightened risks due to preexisting conditions: a partial lung removal in youth, chronic knee pain requiring wheelchair use, and susceptibility to winter respiratory illnesses.
“If his ability to maintain direct contact with people was compromised, he might resign,” said Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi to RTL Radio, referencing Francis’ 2022 resignation letter draft.
Key health challenges complicating recovery:
- Both lungs affected by pneumonia
- History of 2023 respiratory infection
- Difficulty expelling fluid due to weakened respiratory muscles
While cardinals acknowledge resignation discussions, Vatican spokespeople reaffirm Francis continues papal duties from his hospital bed, approving bishop appointments. Canon law lacks protocols for incapacitated popes, though Francis previously rejected retirement, stating the papacy is “for life” after Benedict XVI’s controversial 2013 resignation.
Medical experts caution pneumonia recovery in elderly patients often takes 10–14 days. Francis’ prior hospitalizations include:
- 2021: Colon surgery (13-inch resection)
- 2023: Hernia repair and abdominal scar tissue removal
Despite Vatican assurances, global Catholics await updates on this unprecedented health crisis intersecting with centuries-old papal tradition.
