Pope Francis Continues Hospital Stay Battling Pneumonia

Nuns pray for Pope Francis in front of the statue of Pope John Paul II at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, in Rome, Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, where the Pontiff is hospitalized since Friday, Feb. 14.(AP

Pope Francis has reached the one-week mark in his hospital stay as he fights pneumonia and a complex respiratory infection. The 88-year-old pontiff showed a slight improvement in his clinical condition, with his heart functioning well, according to the Vatican. However, it will take time to determine the effectiveness of the various drug therapies. Recovery from pneumonia in such a fragile patient could take up to two weeks.

On Friday morning, the Vatican reported that Pope Francis had a good night and was able to get up and have breakfast. He was admitted to Gemelli hospital in Rome on Feb. 14 after his bronchitis worsened, leading to a diagnosis of a complex respiratory infection and pneumonia in both lungs on top of asthmatic bronchitis. Doctors have prescribed absolute rest for his recovery.

There have been discussions among cardinals about the possibility of Pope Francis resigning if he becomes irreversibly ill. Some cardinals have suggested that if his ability to have direct contact with people is compromised, he might consider stepping down, following the precedent set by Pope Benedict XVI in 2013.

Doctors monitoring his condition closely due to potential complications.

Pope Francis hospitalized for pneumonia and respiratory infection.

Speculation about resignation if health deteriorates irreversibly.

Pope Francis continues to work during hospital stay.

Despite his health challenges, there is no indication that Pope Francis is currently incapacitated or considering resignation. He has continued to work during his hospital stay, including making bishop appointments. While he has a history of respiratory issues, including pneumonia in 2023, his doctors are closely monitoring his condition due to the potential complications associated with pneumonia in an elderly patient.

Francis has had previous hospital stays during his pontificate, including surgeries to remove part of his colon and repair an abdominal hernia. He is described as an overweight and not particularly physically active 88-year-old who has had lung surgery in the past.

Despite the speculation surrounding his health, Pope Francis has expressed his belief that the papacy is a lifelong commitment. As he continues his recovery in the hospital, the Vatican and medical team are closely monitoring his progress.