Pope Francis's health continues to improve as he recovers from a severe bout of pneumonia, the Vatican confirmed on Tuesday. The 88-year-old pontiff, who returned to the Vatican on March 23 after a five-week stay at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, is said to be regaining strength in both his voice and mobility.
Though doctors prescribed at least two months of convalescence, the Argentine pope made an unexpected public appearance on Sunday, briefly addressing the faithful in St. Peter’s Square. He arrived in a wheelchair, wearing a nasal cannula to aid his breathing, and offered a short blessing via microphone.
“The situation remains stable, with continued improvements observed in his breathing, voice, and motor functions,” the Vatican press office reported.
Pope Francis is currently using high-flow oxygen therapy at night and occasionally during the day. He continues to celebrate mass privately and has resumed limited official duties, including a meeting on Monday with the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
While he remains in good spirits, the Vatican noted that the lung infection “is still present,” requiring ongoing medical attention.
Due to the pope's health condition, a scheduled meeting with King Charles III during the British monarch’s state visit to Italy has been postponed.