Pope Francis was hospitalized this week with a respiratory infection and is still receiving treatment.
The 86-year-old Pope’s health has been a source of speculation for some time, with some suggesting that he is considering resigning, which he has denied.
According to the Vatican, his health is improving during his stay in Rome’s Gemelli hospital. Here’s everything we know about his condition.
What’s the latest news about the Pope’s health?
On Thursday, the Vatican said the pope’s health had improved since he was hospitalized; He has returned to work while his treatment continues.
“His Holiness Pope Francis slept well last night. His condition is gradually improving and he is continuing his planned treatment,” Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said.
He added: “This morning after breakfast he read some newspapers and went back to work.”
The statement added that Francis prayed in a small chapel in his private hospital room, suggesting he was not bedridden.
However, there was no information about when dad would leave the hospital.
In a separate message, the Pope tweeted on Thursday: “I am touched by the many messages I have received during these hours and I thank you for your closeness and prayer.”
The pope had part of his lung removed at the age of 20 during his priestly training in Argentina and is occasionally short of breath and has trouble breathing.
He also suffers from diverticulitis, a condition that can infect or inflame the colon; In 2021, he underwent surgery to remove part of his colon. Francis said in January that the fortune had returned, but he wasn’t overly concerned.
The Pope also has a problem with his right knee that causes him to alternate between canes and wheelchairs while performing in public.
Why was Pope Francis hospitalized?
Pope Francis was hospitalized with a respiratory infection on Wednesday, March 29 after complaining of difficulty breathing.
Earlier that day, he arrived in good spirits for his usual weekly audience, joking with the bishops, hugging a young girl, and giving a ride to a group of children in his open popemobile.
After tests revealed his infection, the Vatican said he was supposed to spend “a couple of days” in the hospital, but tested negative for Covid-19.
This has called into question his participation in the upcoming Easter Holy Week, one of the busiest periods in the church calendar, which begins on Palm Sunday April 2.
His recent hospitalization revived rumors of a possible medical discharge, following the historical precedent of his predecessor, Benedict XVI, who died in December.
However, Francis indicated that he would only follow suit if he was severely disabled.
When asked earlier this month what state he would be in when he retired, he said: “Fatigue that prevents you from seeing things clearly. Lack of clarity in knowing how to assess situations.”
Additional agency reports