Pope Francis’ health has stabilized, with his fever subsiding, according to a Vatican update issued Monday evening.
The 88-year-old pontiff was hospitalized in Rome on Friday for bronchitis. However, by Monday afternoon, his condition had improved, allowing him to resume reading and some work activities.
Pope Francis has faced multiple health challenges in recent years. In 2023, he was hospitalized with pneumonia and later underwent surgery to repair a hernia. In 2021, he had part of his large intestine removed due to severe inflammation. As a young man, he also had part of a lung removed due to a pulmonary infection. Additionally, the pope relies on a wheelchair, walker, or cane due to knee and sciatica problems, which put him at a higher risk for complications from bronchitis.
Dr. Maor Sauler, an expert in pulmonary medicine at Yale School of Medicine, explained that the pope’s age and physical condition make him particularly vulnerable to respiratory infections, despite the best medical care.
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the airways that causes coughing, mucus production, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. It can be mild in healthy individuals but may pose serious risks for the elderly or those with pre-existing health conditions.
Despite his health issues, Pope Francis has continued his demanding work schedule. On Friday, he insisted on completing his morning duties before heading to the hospital, despite struggling with shortness of breath. He was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital in fair condition as his bronchitis worsened.
The pope’s hospitalization led to the cancellation of several events, including his weekly general audience. His schedule has now been cleared until late February. Doctors diagnosed him with a complex respiratory infection and prescribed rest and medication to aid recovery.
In a Monday statement, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed that Pope Francis’ condition was stable. He had eaten breakfast, read the newspapers, and enjoyed a peaceful night at the hospital. His fever has also gone down.
Despite his hospitalization, the pope maintained communication with the Catholic Church in Gaza through daily video calls. Reverend Gabriel Romanelli, the parish priest, mentioned that while the pope’s voice sounded more tired, he was able to listen and engage in the conversation.
The pope’s condition has drawn prayers and support from around the world. Religious groups, including Nigerian nuns and Christian communities in the United States, have gathered outside the hospital to pray for his recovery. Pope Francis has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support.
The Vatican announced that Pope Francis had no fever and was continuing with his prescribed therapy. He was also able to perform some work activities and read texts. On Friday, his official X (formerly Twitter) account posted a message of thanks for the prayers and affection shown by his followers.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a prayer for the pope’s health, asking God to look favorably on the pontiff as he leads the Church.
Sister Mary Beatrice Nnenji, a sister praying outside the hospital, emphasized the importance of prayer, saying that no one is strong enough on their own, especially as Pope Francis continues his demanding work despite his age.
Pope Francis will remain in the hospital as he recovers from the infection. The Vatican confirmed that his condition requires continued medical supervision. His calendar for February has been cleared, and his next scheduled appointment is March 5, Ash Wednesday.
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