ROME (AP) – Pope John Paul II is doing well after leaving the hospital and should be able to continue with his work within a few days, a top Italian cardinal said in comments published Saturday.

Cardinal Camillo Ruini, the pontiff’s vicar for Rome, told the newspaper La Repubblica that he was “very optimistic” about John Paul’s ability to work following his 10-day hospitalization.

The 84-year-old pontiff was rushed to the hospital on Feb. 1 with flu and breathing difficulties. He returned to the Vatican on Thursday.

“The pope is well, the flu has completely passed and I think that in a few days he will really begin work again,” Ruini told La Repubblica. “I am very optimistic. I am in fact sure that … he will continue to have the real capacity to work … not only in his speeches but in the decisions that are taken.”

Ruini also said the pope’s speech, often weak and slurred, is clearly audible.

Ruini said that he thought John Paul would be able to travel to Cologne, Germany, in August for World Youth Day. Though the pope has cut back on foreign travel, aides have long insisted that he will make that trip. The recent illness left many wondering how the pontiff – who also suffers from Parkinson’s disease and crippling hip and knee ailments – would continue in his papacy in such weak health.

On Monday, Cardinal Angelo Sodano, the Vatican’s No. 2 official, said the possibility of a papal resignation should be left “up to the pope’s conscience.” The mere fact he did not rule out a resignation surprised many observers and led some to wonder whether officials were preparing the terrain for an abdication. No pope has resigned for centuries, and John Paul repeatedly has said he intends to carry out his mission until the end.