The Vatican confirmed Pope Francis showed signs of improvement Thursday morning after battling pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The 88-year-old pontiff, diagnosed with acute polymicrobial respiratory infections earlier this week, now sits upright for meals as antibiotics and cortisone treatments progress.
Medical reports reveal critical details:
- Active pneumonia in both lungs
- Combination bacterial/viral respiratory infection
- Complications from chronic asthmatic bronchitis
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni described the Pope as “joking as always” during their Wednesday meeting. Doctors remain cautious, citing elevated risks for elderly patients.
“Fluid clearance becomes harder with compromised respiratory function,” experts warn.
Francis’ medical history intensifies concerns. The surviving lung from his 1957 surgery reduces pulmonary reserve, while chronic knee pain limits mobility. Despite optimistic public appearances, Vatican sources confirm this represents his most severe health challenge since his 2021 colon surgery.
Hospital staff emphasize strict treatment adherence this time, a shift from the Pope’s self-admitted history of noncompliance with medical protocols. With respiratory infection season peaking, specialists monitor cardiac strain closely while managing antibiotic resistance risks.
