Italy's PM Meloni Visits Pope Francis Amid Health Concerns
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Loading... - Aziza Hamdy
- 20 Feb 2025
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Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni visited Pope Francis in the hospital on Wednesday, providing an update on his health following his recent diagnosis of pneumonia and bronchial infection. The Vatican reported that while the pope's overall condition remained stable, blood tests indicated a "slight improvement" in key inflammation indices.
During the 20-minute visit, Meloni described the pope as "alert and responsive," noting that he was in good spirits and maintained his characteristic sense of humor despite being hospitalized for six days. "We joked around as always," she stated, emphasizing the pope's resilience.
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital after a week-long battle with bronchitis that worsened, leading to a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia. The Vatican confirmed that he had been eating, getting out of bed, and even working with his collaborators during his stay.
Meloni, who has expressed admiration for previous popes, conveyed get-well wishes on behalf of the Italian government and the nation. She is the first confirmed outside visitor to see the pope since his hospitalization, aside from his medical team and secretaries.
As prayers for the pope's recovery continue to pour in, he also received well-wishes from U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who highlighted the seriousness of the pope's health issues. Francis's condition has been closely monitored, with medical professionals noting the importance of his response to treatment.
The pope's health challenges stem from a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection, which has complicated his bronchitis. Doctors are treating him with cortisone and antibiotics, and while he is currently breathing on his own, his age and limited physical activity put him at higher risk for complications.
Despite the challenges, the Vatican has reported that Francis is stable and has been engaging with his surroundings, including receiving drawings and cards from children in the hospital's oncology ward. Pilgrimages at the Vatican continue, with many expressing their hopes for the pope's swift recovery.
As the situation develops, the Vatican has not provided a timeline for how long the pope may remain hospitalized, but they have indicated that his treatment will require an adequate stay to address his "complex clinical picture." The global community continues to keep Pope Francis in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
