Hospitalised Pope Francis in good spirits, says Italian PM Meloni

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited Pope Francis in hospital on Wednesday, reporting that he was “alert and responsive” despite his ongoing battle with pneumonia and a severe bronchial infection that has kept him hospitalised for nearly a week.

Meloni, who described the meeting as warm and lighthearted, said she brought well wishes on behalf of the Italian government and the nation.

“We joked around as always. He has not lost his proverbial sense of humour,” her office stated.

Her visit marked the first confirmed meeting with an outside official since the 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday. Until now, only his personal aides and medical team had seen him.

The Vatican announced that Pope Francis, who had part of one lung removed in his youth, was stable, up and eating.

Tests on Tuesday confirmed he is battling pneumonia in both lungs, alongside asthmatic bronchitis.

His vicar for Rome urged believers to dedicate an hour of silent prayer for the pope before evening vespers services. Meanwhile, pilgrims who had planned to attend his weekly general audience, which was cancelled, gathered at St Peter’s Square to pray for his recovery.

“I think many people are disappointed but I think more importantly we really have to pray for his health,” said Sister Charlene, a nun from Singapore who was among the pilgrims.

Pope Francis was admitted to hospital after his bout of bronchitis worsened. Tests later confirmed a polymicrobial respiratory infection, indicating a combination of bacteria and viruses had infiltrated his respiratory system.

Late on Tuesday, a CT scan revealed he was suffering from bilateral pneumonia, meaning both lungs are affected. 

“Pope Francis is a strong man who does not let difficulties get him down,” said the Reverend Enzo Fortunato, head of a Vatican commission on children. 

Concerns over recovery time and risks

The Vatican has provided no updates on how Francis is responding to treatment but confirmed he has no fever. At his age and with limited mobility, the risk of complications remains.

Dr Meredith McCormack, a pulmonary specialist at Johns Hopkins University, said Pope Francis’ progress will depend on his response to therapy, which may include physiotherapy to clear fluid from his lungs.

“Lack of worsening would be an encouraging sign,” said McCormack, who is not involved in his treatment. While standard pneumonia recovery takes one to two weeks, elderly patients often require more time.

The Vatican has not indicated how long Pope Francis will remain in hospital, stating only that treating such a “complex clinical picture” will necessitate an “adequate” stay.

Despite the pontiff’s absence, well-wishers continue to send him messages of support.

Meanwhile, Holy Year pilgrimages remain underway at the Vatican, with groups of faithful passing through St Peter’s Basilica’s Holy Door on Wednesday.