Pope Francis is gradually regaining his strength while still hospitalized but needs to relearn how to speak due to the effects of prolonged high-flow oxygen therapy, according to Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez.

The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been battling double pneumonia for the past five weeks, continues to show minor improvements in breathing and mobility, the Vatican confirmed in its latest health update.

A person holds an image of Pope Francis on the day of a prayer service at St. Peter’s square as Pope Francis continues hospitalization, at the Vatican, March 19, 2025. REUTERS/Guglielmo Mangiapane TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

Recovering but Still Under Observation

According to Reuters, though mechanical ventilation has not been required since Monday, Francis is still receiving oxygen through a nasal cannula for most of the time. His voice remains weak, as evidenced by the only audio message released on March 6, in which he sounded breathless and difficult to understand.

Despite his hospitalization, Cardinal Fernandez dismissed speculation that the Pope might retire. “I really don’t think so, no,” he stated during the presentation of a new book by Francis on poetry.

Uncertainty Over Easter Return

There is no official word on when Pope Francis might return to the Vatican. With Easter Sunday falling on April 20, his discharge remains uncertain.

Letters addressed to Pope Francis, who is undergoing treatment for double pneumonia at Gemelli Hospital, are pictured at Poste Italiane’s Roma Belsito distribution center in Rome, Italy, March 19, 2025. REUTERS/Antonio Denti

“He could return, but the doctors want to be 100% sure,” Fernandez explained, adding that Francis remains focused on serving others. “With the little time he has left, he wants to dedicate himself entirely to others, not to himself.”

The Pope’s health has been a growing concern in recent years due to recurring lung infections, linked to a partial lung removal he underwent as a young adult. His current hospitalization marks one of his longest health battles yet.