Pope Francis remains in Rome’s Gemelli hospital three weeks after being admitted for double pneumonia, with medical experts cautioning that his recovery could be long and fraught with complications. The 88-year-old pontiff has not been seen in public since his hospitalization, and the Vatican has yet to indicate when he might be discharged or resume his official duties.
Health Concerns and Uncertain Recovery
The Vatican has been issuing regular updates about Pope Francis’ health, breaking previous traditions of secrecy regarding a pontiff’s medical condition. While officials noted that his condition remains clinically stable, doctors have continued to express caution about his prognosis.
“This type of pneumonia is challenging even for a young person, let alone an elderly man with a history of respiratory issues,” said Loredana Sarmati, a professor of infectious diseases at Rome’s Tor Vergata University. She added that recovery could take weeks or even months.
The pope, who had part of a lung removed in his youth due to pleurisy, has experienced four episodes of breathlessness since February 22, the latest occurring on March 3. Medical experts said that such respiratory distress can put significant strain on his heart and overall health.
Signs of Improvement, But No Major Progress
While the Vatican reports indicate no fever since February 14 and stable blood tests, doctors remain concerned that Pope Francis’ condition has not significantly improved despite intensive antibiotic treatment.
A senior physician, who previously worked at Gemelli hospital, told Reuters that after three weeks of treatment, doctors would usually expect more noticeable signs of recovery. “Each breathing crisis puts immense pressure on his heart, which is already a major concern,” the physician said.
Currently, the pope continues to receive supplemental oxygen, either through a breathing mask or nasal cannula, to assist his lungs. If his condition worsens, doctors may have to consider intubation, which would require sedation—a step that medical experts describe as a last resort for a man of his age.
Concerns Over Long-Term Impact
Doctors have been administering respiratory therapy to improve Pope Francis’ lung function, along with physiotherapy to counter the effects of prolonged hospitalization. Experts warn that even if he recovers, he may not regain full strength.
“Some damage may remain in his lungs, so a 100% recovery is uncertain,” said Carlo Vancheri, a respiratory disease specialist from the University of Catania.
It remains unclear whether Pope Francis has given directives regarding his medical treatment should his condition worsen. The Catholic Church allows patients to refuse excessive or burdensome treatments, and Francis himself has previously spoken about the ethical decision to forgo “overzealous treatment” in end-of-life care.
Vatican Prepares for Next Steps
As the Vatican monitors his condition, the global Catholic community remains on high alert. If Pope Francis’ health does not improve soon, discussions about his future ability to lead the Church may intensify.
Sources By Agencies
