Pope Francis, 88, has returned to the Vatican after a five-week hospital stay that sparked concerns about his health and even potential resignation. He was admitted to Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Hospital on February 14 due to bronchitis symptoms and later developed pneumonia in both lungs.
According to his doctors, Francis’ life was at risk twice during his recovery period. He will need to avoid large gatherings and continue receiving supplemental oxygen and 24-hour care as needed at his home next to St Peter’s Basilica.
Despite this, the pontiff has made significant progress and is no longer facing an immediate threat from pneumonia. His doctors say he will hopefully resume normal activities soon. A visit from King Charles III on April 8 and Easter celebrations later in April are now uncertain due to Francis’ ongoing rehabilitation.
Francis’ health condition remains stable, according to the Vatican, but he will need to continue treatment at a hospital for now. The pontiff’s personal physician hopes he will be well enough to travel to Turkey at the end of May.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/03/23/pope-francis-recovery-pneumonia-vatican