Pope not fully recovered, condition not life-threatening, doctors say
Pope Francis has not yet fully recovered from illness, but he is not in danger of losing his life, doctors from Gemelli Hospital said during a press conference on Friday.
Pope Francis was hospitalized with a respiratory tract infection and now has pneumonia in both lungs. He has been hospitalized since last week.
"The pope is fine, but the reason we are here is it has been one week in the hospital," one of his doctors said in English, saying that Francis is 88 years old and mortal, but adding he has retained his humor in the situation.
His doctors said he was recovering well, but added he is a fragile patient.
Pope Francis is not bedridden, and he is not attached to any machines, doctors said. He only needs additional oxygen at times when he has asthmatic moments, according to doctors. They said he is eating regularly and has a good appetite, and while he doesn't walk well, he's been having issues with his knees for awhile.
He has been sitting in an armchair and has been going to chapel during the day, doctors said.
The pope was admitted to a hospital last week for "necessary tests" and to continue his ongoing bronchitis treatment, the Vatican said.
The doctors also took issue with reporters asking why photos of the pope have not been released, saying privacy should be respected for all and that they didn't need pictures of the pope in his pajamas on the front page of every newspaper.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
