By Charles Igwe
The Vatican Press Office has confirmed that Pope Francis continues his recovery at St. Martha’s House, his Vatican residence, following his discharge from Gemelli Hospital on Sunday. His convalescence remains under the medical guidelines set at the time of his discharge, with a Vatican medical team available 24/7 in case of any emergency.
During his recovery, the pope is undergoing respiratory and motor physiotherapy exercises and continues with his prescribed drug therapy. The Holy See Press Office reported on Tuesday that Pope Francis had concelebrated Mass and attended to some light work-related tasks.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, stated that only the most essential matters requiring the pope’s decision would be addressed during this period to ensure he is not overburdened. He added that he would meet with the Holy Father once he has settled into his recovery routine.
As a precaution, both the general audience scheduled for Wednesday and the Sunday Angelus remain suspended. Instead, the Vatican will continue to release the texts prepared by the pope, as it has done since his hospitalization. The Holy Father is also not expected to meet with large groups of the faithful until at least the end of May, as doctors have advised against any risk of reinfection that could compromise his health.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who led the medical team at Gemelli Hospital, has urged the public to limit visits and meetings to help facilitate a smooth recovery for the pope. However, the Vatican clarified that this stage of his convalescence differs from hospitalization, allowing him to receive a limited number of visitors to while maintaining caution.
