Pope Francis released from hospital following weekslong health crisis
Photo by Long Thiên licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
Andrew Scida, Contributing Writer
Pope Francis was discharged from Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on March 23 after a five-week stay, during which he spent four weeks in critical condition, according to Al Jazeera.
The 88-year-old pope was hospitalized on Feb. 14 with a respiratory tract infection that developed into pneumonia in both lungs, according to the Vatican News Service. Doctors said the infection not only affected his lung function but also impacted his kidneys.
The illness was particularly concerning given Pope Francis’ history of lung issues, including having part of a lung removed at age 21. He was previously hospitalized in 2023 for lung inflammation caused by influenza.
Despite his condition, the pope continued to fulfill his duties during his hospital stay, including appointing bishops, according to the Vatican News Service.
Following his discharge, Pope Francis appeared frail as he greeted crowds outside the hospital with a thumbs-up, though he seemed mentally alert. Doctors have advised the pope to rest for at least two months, avoiding physical exertion and large group meals, according to CNN.
