Pope Francis “joked around” with Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, after spending a “tranquil” fifth night in the hospital for pneumonia treatment, according to her office.
Ms. Meloni, who visited the 88-year-old pontiff on Wednesday, said in a statement that Pope Francis was “alert and responsive” during their meeting. They also “joked around as always,” and the Pope’s “proverbial sense of humor” remained intact.
The Vatican provided an update later on Wednesday, stating that the Pope showed “slight improvement” in recent blood test results.
Ms. Meloni was the first confirmed visitor to the Pope who wasn’t part of his medical team or a secretary since he was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday for bronchitis treatment. According to the Vatican, Pope Francis slept well, got out of bed, and had breakfast on Wednesday after tests confirmed he developed bilateral pneumonia, meaning both lungs were infected.
Due to his condition, the Pope’s engagements for the weekend were canceled. As a young man, Pope Francis had part of one lung removed after suffering from pleurisy.
The Vatican added that while the Pope’s health continues to present “a complex picture,” his condition remains under close observation. Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, stated that Pope Francis was in good spirits and expressed gratitude for people’s prayers. Reports suggest the Pope has been reading newspapers and working from his hospital room during his stay.
Concerns about the Pope’s health have been growing as his frailty increases. He has faced multiple health issues, including influenza, over the past two years. Pilgrims visiting the Vatican this week have prayed for his swift recovery.
Bilateral pneumonia is a serious condition that can impair breathing, leading to inflammation and scarring in the lungs. The Vatican has not yet confirmed how long the Pope will remain in the hospital. A spokesperson mentioned that his treatment plan has undergone adjustments, and he will need an “adequate” amount of time to recover.
