Pope Francis to Be Discharged from Hospital After Five-Week Treatment for Double Pneumonia, Set to Continue Recovery at Vatican

Pope Francis is set to be discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Sunday, following a five-week stay for the treatment of double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff, who was admitted on February 14 after experiencing complications from bronchitis, has shown signs of stability over the past two weeks, according to his medical team. The announcement was made by Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the medical director at Gemelli Hospital, during a briefing held on Saturday evening.

The pope’s health has been a subject of concern due to his chronic lung disease and recent health challenges. During his hospital stay, there were periods when his condition was critical, necessitating high-flow oxygen therapy. Despite these challenges, the medical team has expressed optimism about his recovery, noting that he will be under a “protected discharge” plan. This plan will involve ongoing medication and a recommended rest period of at least two months.

Upon his discharge, Pope Francis will return to the Vatican, where he will continue his recovery. The doctors emphasized the importance of rest and rehabilitation during this time to ensure a full recovery. The Vatican has not yet detailed the extent to which the pope’s schedule and duties will be adjusted during his recuperation period.

This recent health episode is part of a series of ongoing health issues that Pope Francis has faced in recent years. The Vatican and the medical team at Gemelli Hospital have been closely monitoring his condition, providing updates as necessary. The pope’s resilience and the medical team’s efforts have been pivotal in his recovery process, as he prepares to resume his responsibilities in due course.