Pope Francis returns to Vatican after prolonged hospital stay for severe pneumonia

Pope Francis has returned to the Vatican after spending five weeks in Rome‘s Gemelli hospital battling a life-threatening case of double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has long struggled with respiratory issues, was discharged on Sunday morning and taken back to his residence at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, where doctors have prescribed at least two months of rest and recovery.

How Serious Was Pope Francis’ Pneumonia Diagnosis?

Pope Francis’ health has been a subject of concern in recent years due to his preexisting lung condition, a result of a partial lung removal during his youth in Argentina. When he was admitted to the hospital on February 14, initial concerns were raised over what was first diagnosed as bronchitis. However, the infection soon developed into a more severe case of pneumonia affecting both lungs.

Medical reports indicate that Francis suffered from a complex bacterial, viral, and fungal respiratory infection. His condition worsened on February 28 when he experienced a severe coughing fit, leading to aspiration pneumonia—a situation where vomit enters the lungs, causing further complications. Doctors had to perform manual aspiration to remove excessive mucus from his lungs, and he was placed on noninvasive mechanical ventilation to assist his breathing.

At one point, the Vatican acknowledged the severity of his illness but reassured the public that Francis had remained conscious and responsive throughout his treatment. Blood tests had initially indicated anemia, low platelet counts, and the onset of kidney failure, though these issues were later resolved following two blood transfusions.

What Did Pope Francis Do Before Returning to the Vatican?

Before heading directly to the Vatican, Pope Francis made an unannounced stop at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, a place of personal significance for him. The basilica houses the revered Salus Populi Romani icon, a Byzantine-style painting of the Madonna that Francis frequently prays before.

Although he remained inside his car, he handed a bouquet of flowers to Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko, the basilica’s archpriest, who placed them in front of the sacred image on his behalf. Francis has often visited this basilica after returning from international trips and has expressed his desire to be buried there in the future.

How Did the Public React to His Hospital Discharge?

Hundreds of people gathered outside the Gemelli hospital on Sunday morning, eager to see Pope Francis after his prolonged absence. Shortly before leaving, he appeared on a balcony overlooking the hospital’s main entrance, giving a weak wave and a thumbs-up to the crowd.

Witnesses described him as appearing frail and slightly bloated, likely due to his illness and medical treatments. His voice was noticeably breathless as he acknowledged a woman in the crowd holding yellow flowers.

Chants of “Viva il Papa!” (Long live the Pope!) echoed among the onlookers, many of whom were fellow patients who had been wheeled outside to witness his brief appearance. Pilgrims at St. Peter’s Square also celebrated his return, with some nuns and visitors from around the world expressing their gratitude for his recovery.

What Are the Pope’s Recovery Plans?

Doctors have advised Pope Francis to refrain from large public gatherings and strenuous activities for at least two months. While no major modifications have been made to his residence at the Vatican, he will receive around-the-clock medical supervision.

Francis will continue using supplemental oxygen as needed, and his physicians expect a gradual improvement in his lung function. Although the pneumonia itself has been successfully treated, he will remain on oral medication for a lingering fungal infection in his lungs. Additionally, he has been prescribed ongoing respiratory therapy to help strengthen his breathing.

Dr. Luigi Carbone, one of the physicians overseeing his care, noted that Francis had been eager to return home for several days, asking repeatedly when he would be discharged.

What Does This Mean for the Vatican and the Catholic Church?

The pope’s prolonged hospitalization was the longest of his 12-year tenure and the second-longest hospital stay for a modern pontiff, following Pope John Paul II’s medical challenges in his later years. Given Francis’ age and preexisting conditions, concerns had been mounting over whether he might follow the precedent set by Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned due to declining health in 2013.

However, Vatican officials have repeatedly dismissed speculation about a possible resignation. They maintain that while Francis’ schedule will be adjusted for his recovery, he remains mentally sharp and committed to his role.

His return also comes at a crucial time for the Vatican, as St. Peter’s Basilica continues to receive a large influx of pilgrims participating in the ongoing 2025 Holy Year celebrations. The Catholic faithful, many of whom have been praying for Francis’ recovery, see his return as a hopeful sign as the church prepares for the year-long spiritual festivities.

What Challenges Lie Ahead for Pope Francis?

Despite his resilience, Pope Francis faces ongoing health challenges that may impact his ability to travel and carry out his demanding schedule. His past surgeries—including a major intestinal operation in 2021—combined with his current respiratory condition, suggest that his mobility and endurance will need to be carefully managed moving forward.

While his return to the Vatican signals a positive step in his recovery, the coming months will determine how well he regains his strength. For now, the pontiff is expected to limit his public appearances and focus on regaining his health under the careful supervision of his medical team.

The Catholic Church, meanwhile, remains closely attentive to his condition, knowing that his leadership—particularly during a Holy Year—will be crucial in shaping the spiritual direction of millions worldwide.