Pope Francis, 88, has been hospitalized again, this time with pneumonia in both lungs. Admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14, he is breathing independently but has been in “intense pain” and has privately voiced concerns about his recovery.
Pneumonia, which causes lung inflammation and fluid buildup, is especially dangerous for those with underlying health issues. Despite this, Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, who visited him, said he remained “alert and in good spirits,” even joking during their conversation.
The Vatican reassured the public that the Pope is improving. A February 21 statement confirmed he had a “restful night” and was able to sit up for breakfast. Doctors also noted slight improvements in his condition.
Elected in 2013 as the first non-European Pope in nearly 1,300 years, Francis was hospitalized for bronchitis in 2023. At the time, he reassured the world, saying, “I am still alive.”
