ROME — On Wednesday, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited Pope Francis at Gemelli hospital, where he has been receiving treatment for pneumonia and a bronchial infection that has kept him away from public duties for the past six days. Meloni reported that the pope was “alert and responsive” and maintained a cheerful demeanor during their 20-minute interaction.
The Vatican confirmed that while the pope’s overall condition has remained stable, blood tests indicated a slight improvement in certain inflammation indicators. Francis was able to work with his collaborations later that afternoon, demonstrating that he is still engaged despite health challenges.
Meloni expressed her well-wishes to the pope on behalf of the Italian government and its citizens, stating that they shared light-hearted moments together. “We joked around as always. He has not lost his proverbial sense of humor,” she remarked in a statement released by her office. Her visit was notably significant as she was the first confirmed outside visitor, aside from his medical team, since he was admitted to the hospital last Friday.
The aim of Meloni’s visit seemed to be to reassure the public, especially given that Italians had not seen any recent images of the pope. The Vatican has stated that Francis was eating well and had been able to get out of bed after an uneventful night, following the diagnosis of pneumonia affecting both of his lungs alongside his ongoing bronchitis treatment.
Meloni, who has been in power since 2022 and has often spoken highly of past popes such as John Paul II and Benedict XVI, has previously found common ground with Francis on certain issues like Italy’s low birth rate, despite differences regarding immigration policies. Her visit coincided with widespread prayers for Francis’ recovery; his vicar for Rome called for an hour of silent prayer, while some hospital visitors lit candles in his honor. Pilgrims who were meant to attend his general audience, which was canceled, gathered at St. Peter’s Square to pray for him instead.
Sister Charlene, a nun visiting from Singapore, expressed the sentiment of many when she commented on the disappointment surrounding the cancellation and emphasized the importance of prayer for the pope’s health. Additionally, U.S. Vice President JD Vance also sent well wishes to Francis, acknowledging the severity of his health issues on social media.
Pope Francis has been dealing with a serious respiratory issue since a weeklong bout of bronchitis worsened. He was diagnosed with a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection and subsequently bilateral pneumonia, as revealed by a chest CT scan. Treatment for his conditions includes the administration of cortisone and antibiotics.
Doctor Andrew Chadwick, a specialist in respiratory and intensive care at Oxford University Hospitals, indicated that the success of Francis’ treatment will depend on his response. Bronchitis can lead to pneumonia, which is a more serious lung infection. Complications often arise, particularly when both lungs are infected due to the lack of healthy tissue to assist with breathing.
Currently, Francis is breathing independently and has stable heart function. He has been able to maintain a semblance of routine by eating breakfast daily, reading newspapers, and engaging in light work from his hospital room. Rev. Enzo Fortunato noted that the pope’s ability to keep his everyday routine, including receiving the Eucharist, reflects his desire to maintain a sense of normalcy, even in the face of illness.
As for potential complications, the Vatican has not provided detailed updates on how Francis is responding to his treatment regimen. The pope faces increased health risks given his age and limited physical activity, as he utilizes a wheelchair, making it more challenging to clear the fluids from his lungs. Dr. Meredith McCormack at Johns Hopkins stated that physicians would be monitoring Francis’ reaction to treatment, which could involve physiotherapy aimed at enhancing lung clearance. In severe cases, treatment can last from one to two weeks, with recovery potentially taking longer for older individuals.
While the Vatican remains noncommittal about the pope’s length of stay in the hospital, it has emphasized that his treatment for this “complex clinical picture” necessitates a significant duration of care.
Despite the somewhat grim news about the pope’s health, expressions of support continue to pour in. Children in the hospital’s oncology ward are sending him drawings and messages. Meanwhile, Holy Year pilgrimages continue at the Vatican, with faithful visitors walking through St. Peter’s Basilica’s Holy Door, even on a chilly and overcast day.
“We are very happy to be here but we are also sad for the pope’s sickness,” said Amparo Alcala, who led a group of pilgrims from Valencia, Spain. She spoke of hope for the pope’s recovery, stating her belief that should it align with God’s will, he would return to his duties, noting how much joy his actions have brought to the church.
