Pope Francis Shows Signs of Improvement Amid Pneumonia Treatment
Pope Francis is reportedly showing slight improvement in his health as he continues to receive treatment for pneumonia, the Vatican announced on February 19. The 88-year-old pontiff has been undergoing care at Rome's Gemelli hospital for six days following his diagnosis of pneumonia in both lungs. The Vatican's recent statement indicated that his blood tests reflect a positive trend, particularly with inflammatory markers.
Despite concerns about his health, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited the Pope and found him in good spirits, joking and maintaining his trademark humor. "We joked as always. He hasn't lost his proverbial sense of humor," Meloni shared after their 20-minute meeting.
There has been considerable concern regarding the Pope's health, previously complicated by other medical issues including colon and hernia surgery. Speculation about his well-being escalated amid unverified online reports, including those suggesting he had passed away. However, early reports from the Vatican confirmed that he had spent a restful night at the hospital and had breakfast the following morning.
The Vatican described the situation as complex, noting that the Pope is contending with a polymicrobial infection alongside bronchiectasis and asthmatic bronchitis, necessitating a detailed therapeutic approach. The Pope underwent a follow-up chest CT scan, which revealed the development of bilateral pneumonia, leading to additional medical intervention.
Due to his health status, the Vatican has canceled a scheduled papal audience on Saturday and indicated he will not participate in the Sunday mass. While there is uncertainty regarding his participation in the weekly Angelus prayer, the faith community is actively praying for his recovery. Cardinal Baldassare Reina, vicar general of the Diocese of Rome, has urged parishes to include the Pope in their prayers, and many have gathered to light candles outside the hospital.
Jesuit theologian Antonio Spadaro, an adviser to the Pope, mentioned that he could be hospitalized for two to three weeks, stressing that while the situation is delicate, there is no cause for alarm. He highlighted the Pope's remarkable vitality, stating, "He is not a person who lets himself go; he is not a resigned man. And that is a very positive element."
Pope Francis has previously expressed that he would consider resigning only if he became unable to fulfill his duties, although he described it as a distant possibility in a memoir last year. As he celebrates the holy Jubilee year, the Pope continues to uphold a busy schedule, despite his health challenges.
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