Pope Francis hospitalized, improving but active

Pope Francis continues to receive treatment for pneumonia and a polymicrobial infection at Rome's Gemelli hospital, with blood tests showing slight improvement on his sixth day.

Despite initial concerns over his health, Vatican officials report that Pope Francis remains active, having conducted work activities and spoken to friends by telephone while receiving messages of support from around the world.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited the pontiff for 20 minutes and found him 'alert and responsive', joking as always despite ongoing medical issues.

The pope's hospitalization has caused widespread alarm given his history of respiratory problems, including recent colon surgery and hernia operations, but Vatican officials assure there is no cause for alarmism.

Francis remains hospitalized with pneumonia in both lungs, requiring cortisone antibiotic therapy and additional drug treatment, while the Vatican cancels upcoming events until further notice.