Pope Francis, 88, is showing positive signs of recovery during his hospitalization for pneumonia and a bronchial infection. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni visited the pontiff and reported him to be in good spirits, alert, responsive, and maintaining his characteristic sense of humor. Meloni conveyed well wishes from the Italian government and people, noting the Pope's continued positive attitude.

This visit marks the first confirmed outside visitor since the Pope's admission to Rome's Gemelli hospital last Friday. While there, he resides in a dedicated papal suite on the 10th floor.

Supporters have placed candles and images of Pope Francis beneath a statue of Pope John Paul II outside the hospital. The Vatican has confirmed that the Pope, who had part of a lung removed in his youth, is now eating, out of bed, and engaging in light activities like reading newspapers and working from his room, following a restful night. He has been experiencing bilateral pneumonia in addition to asthmatic bronchitis, for which he is receiving cortisone and antibiotics.

Francis' vicar for Rome encouraged an hour of silent prayer for the Pope's recovery, and many pilgrims who had intended to attend his general audience gathered in St. Peter's Square to pray despite its cancellation. Expressing both disappointment and concern, one nun from Singapore emphasized the importance of prayer for the Pope's health.

Double Pneumonia Indicates a Serious Infection

The Pope's hospitalization followed a week of worsening bronchitis. Medical professionals diagnosed a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection, involving a combination of viruses, bacteria, and possibly other microorganisms. A subsequent CT scan revealed bilateral pneumonia, a more serious lung infection affecting both lungs. This condition makes recovery more challenging as there is less healthy lung tissue to compensate.

Treatment for pneumonia varies depending on severity and can involve oxygen support, intravenous fluids, and addressing the underlying infection. Currently, Pope Francis is breathing independently and his heart function is reported as good. He remains active, eating regularly and engaging in light activities.

Pope Faces Elevated Risk of Complications

The Vatican has not disclosed details about the Pope's response to medication, other than confirming he is not feverish. Due to his age, limited physical activity, and reliance on a wheelchair, the Pope faces a higher risk of complications. These factors can hinder the clearing of fluids from his lungs.

Medical experts are monitoring his response to therapy, which may include physiotherapy to aid lung function. While severe pneumonia typically requires one to two weeks of treatment, recovery for older individuals can take longer. Any signs of non-worsening are considered positive.

The Vatican has not specified the Pope's expected hospital stay, stating only that his "complex clinical picture" necessitates an "adequate" duration of treatment. Despite the health concerns, Holy Year pilgrimages continue at the Vatican, with groups of faithful offering prayers for the Pope's swift recovery.

Pilgrimages Proceed Despite Papal Cancellations

Despite the Pope's health challenges, he continues to receive get-well messages and drawings from children in the hospital's oncology ward. Pilgrims visiting the Vatican expressed both joy at their pilgrimage and sadness over the Pope's illness, highlighting his impactful work, particularly for women in the church, and offering prayers for his recovery.

Even with the cancellation of the Pope's general audience, groups like South Korean pilgrims in traditional attire still visited the Vatican, demonstrating their devotion and desire to be present at the holy site.