Pope Francis had a “quiet night” in the hospital after he was admitted for a respiratory infection on Wednesday, according to Italy’s ANSA news agency.
The agency quoted sources from the Gemelli University Hospital on Thursday morning that medical staff was “very optimistic” that the Pope could be back in the Vatican in just a few days, in time for Palm Sunday and ahead of what is a busy season for the Catholic leader.
The 86-year-old was taken to the hospital on Wednesday for a respiratory infection, according to the Holy See.
A Vatican spokesman said he would have to stay for “a few days.” No further medical details were given.
Earlier, on Wednesday, spokesman Matteo Bruni said Francis, 86, had complained of breathing problems in recent days.
Health issues
Francis was admitted in July 2021 to the same Rome hospital for 10 days for an operation on his colon after suffering from a type of diverticulitis, an inflammation of pockets that develop in the lining of the intestine.
In an interview in January, Francis said the diverticulitis had returned.
Francis has repeatedly said, most recently in February, that he would consider stepping down if his health required, following the example of his predecessor Benedict XVI.
He has cautioned, however, that papal resignations should not be the norm, and said in an interview last month that the idea was currently not “on my agenda”.
Benedict, who died on December 31, shocked the world in 2013 by becoming the first pope since the Middle Ages to resign.
In 1957, at age 21, Francis had part of one of his lungs removed, but he has said he has made a full recovery.
Despite his health issues and advancing age, Francis — a Jesuit who seems most happy being among his flock — continues to travel internationally.
Earlier this year, he visited South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, drawing huge crowds.
Next month, he is due to visit Hungary and meet Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
In the past decade, Francis has sought to forge an image of a more open, compassionate Church, although has faced internal opposition, particularly from conservatives.
(dpa/NAN)
