Pope Francis Shows Improvement After Hospitalization for Bronchitis

Pope Francis, the 88-year-old leader of the Catholic Church, has spent a peaceful first night at Rome's Agostino Gemelli Hospital, where he was admitted on Friday, February 14, to undergo treatment and diagnostic tests for bronchitis.

Hospitalization and Initial Condition

The Pope's hospitalization followed a week-long battle with bronchitis, which had significantly impacted his daily activities. Despite his illness, Pope Francis had continued to engage in various duties, including presiding over a jubilee Mass for members of the police and armed forces in St. Peter’s Square on February 9 and participating in his weekly general audience on Wednesday. However, his condition had worsened, prompting the decision to hospitalize him for more intensive care.

On the day of his admission, Pope Francis had meetings with several individuals, including the Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico, before being taken to the hospital in the late morning.

Current Health Status

According to the Vatican, Pope Francis rested well during his first night at the hospital and did not experience any episodes of fever. The initial examinations confirmed an infection of the respiratory tract, and the medical team modified his treatment based on further microbiological findings[2][3][5].

On Saturday morning, the Pope ate breakfast and read several newspapers, indicating a stable and improving condition. The Vatican spokesperson, Matteo Bruni, reported that the Pope's medical assessments and necessary treatments are ongoing, with a focus on total rest to facilitate his recovery[2][4][5].

Medical History and Ongoing Health Challenges

This hospitalization is not the first for Pope Francis, who has faced several health challenges in recent years. He was previously hospitalized for a respiratory infection in March 2023 and canceled a trip to Dubai in November 2023 due to acute infectious bronchitis. The Pope also underwent significant abdominal surgery in 2021 and 2023, including the removal of part of his large intestine and the repair of intestinal scar tissue and a hernia. Additionally, he has been dealing with knee problems and uses a wheelchair, walker, or cane for mobility[1][4].

Global Support and Prayers

The news of Pope Francis's hospitalization has prompted an outpouring of support and prayers from around the world. The Vatican has reported that the Pope has been informed of the many messages of closeness and affection he has received and has expressed his gratitude while asking for continued prayers for his recovery[2][3].

Adjusted Schedule

In light of his health, the Vatican has canceled several of the Pope's appointments, including a jubilee audience planned for Saturday and a meeting with artists at Rome’s historic Cinecittà film studios scheduled for Monday. Pope Francis will also not lead the Angelus prayer on Sunday, February 16, but has forwarded the text for its publication[3][5].

As the Pope continues his recovery, the global Catholic community and beyond remain hopeful for his full and speedy return to health.