Pope alert, joking despite double pneumonia, Italy PM says
The Hindu
Pope Francis remains alert and joking despite double pneumonia, sparking concern over his health.
Pope Francis is alert and still making jokes despite having double pneumonia, Italy's Prime Minister said Wednesday (February 19, 2025) after visiting the 88-year-old pontiff in hospital.
Francis was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital with bronchitis last Friday, but the Holy See revealed on Tuesday that he had developed pneumonia in both of his lungs.
The development caused widespread alarm over the Pope's health, after a series of issues in recent years, from colon and hernia surgery to problems walking.
"I was very happy to find him alert and responsive. We joked as always. He hasn't lost his proverbial sense of humour," Giorgia Meloni said in a statement after her visit.
Amid widespread speculation online, including reports of his death, the Vatican issued an early bulletin Wednesday saying he had spent a "peaceful night" in the hospital's papal suite and had breakfast.
"The pope is breathing on his own. His heart is holding up very well," a source in the Vatican added.
Francis has been speaking to friends by telephone, has been out of bed and sitting in a chair, and working on and off, the source said.
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