Vatican confirms mild improvement but warns of ongoing risks as pontiff continues treatment.
Pope Francis’ Health Sees Small Progress as He Resumes Limited Duties
Pope Francis, 88, remains hospitalised at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital as he continues treatment for double pneumonia and chronic bronchitis, the Vatican has confirmed. While doctors have noted a slight improvement in his condition, they caution that his health remains fragile.
A statement issued on Monday evening reported that oxygen therapy is ongoing, although the flow has been slightly reduced. The mild kidney complications detected earlier are being closely monitored but are not causing immediate concern. Additionally, laboratory tests have shown some improvement, and no further episodes of respiratory distress have occurred.
Despite his condition, the Pope resumed some work on Monday afternoon and, in the evening, made a phone call to the parish priest of Gaza, expressing his spiritual support.
Weekend Health Crisis Raised Alarms
Concerns over the Pope’s health escalated over the weekend, when he suffered a prolonged respiratory crisis requiring a high flow of oxygen. Doctors also detected thrombocytopenia, a condition linked to anaemia, leading to blood transfusions.
Medical experts remain cautious, citing sepsis as a significant risk—a potential complication of pneumonia that can lead to organ failure and be life-threatening.
Previous Health Struggles and Ongoing Speculation
Pope Francis has a history of respiratory illnesses, having lost part of a lung to pleurisy in his youth. He also battled acute pneumonia in 2023, further complicating his current condition.
His increasing frailty has sparked renewed speculation about a possible resignation, though the Vatican has made no official comment on the matter.
Global Support and Papal Message
Millions of Catholics worldwide have expressed concern over the Pope’s condition. In a message released on Sunday, Francis acknowledged the outpouring of prayers and well wishes, particularly from children.
“I have received many messages of affection, and I was especially moved by letters and drawings from children,” he said.
“Thank you for this closeness and for the prayers of comfort from around the world. I entrust you all to the intercession of Mary, and I ask you to pray for me.”
For now, the Vatican remains cautious about his prognosis, while the faithful continue to pray for his recovery.
