Pope Francis, 88, who has been battling pneumonia for over five weeks, will be discharged from Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Sunday but will require two months of convalescence at the Vatican, according to his medical team.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the head of the pope’s medical team, stated that while the pontiff no longer has pneumonia, he is still recovering from a complex infection involving multiple microorganisms. During his hospitalisation, Francis suffered four acute respiratory crises, two of which were critical and put his life in danger.
Although doctors have advised him to avoid large gatherings and strenuous activities, Pope Francis is expected to make a brief public appearance on Sunday, offering a blessing from the hospital window before returning to his residence.
A prolonged recovery period could affect key Vatican engagements, including an April 8 meeting with Britain’s King Charles and the Easter celebrations on April 20. Vatican officials will determine the status of these events at a later date.
Despite his health struggles, Pope Francis remains determined to resume his duties. Dr. Luigi Carbone, vice director of the Vatican’s healthcare service, confirmed that the pontiff will have dedicated nursing care upon his return.
The pope, who had gained weight in recent years due to mobility issues, has lost some weight during his illness. However, Alfieri reassured that this is not a cause for concern, noting that Francis had “some in reserve.”
