Francis has been critically ill with double pneumonia and chronic bronchitis since being admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital on February 14.
However, the worst seems to be oevr, as the 88-year-old is said to be in better condition than in February when he experienced another respiratory crisis and required a blood transfusion. On Friday night, he was reportedly doing some work and praying while also resting and undergoing respiratory physiotherapy.
Saturday's update from the Vatican confirms that he is showing signs of improvement as he continues treatment for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he has been hospitalized for more than three weeks. According to the statement, the 88-year-old pontiff is "responding well" to treatment, with his general condition gradually improving.
"The clinical condition of the Holy Father in recent days has remained stable and indicates a good response to treatment," the Vatican reported. Doctors confirmed that Pope Francis no longer has a fever, and his blood test results remain stable.
Although physicians have observed "a gradual, slight improvement" in his health, they remain cautious about his prognosis, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring to ensure these positive developments continue. The Vatican has not provided a timeline for his recovery or discharge.
This hospitalization marks the longest public absence of Pope Francis’s 12-year papacy, as he has not been seen in public since his admission. Medical experts unaffiliated with his care have suggested that, given his advanced age and existing health conditions, his recovery could be a prolonged and challenging process.
Pope Francis has battled recurring health issues over the past two years, making him more vulnerable to respiratory infections.
As a young man, he suffered from pleurisy, a severe lung infection that required the removal of part of his lung. Double pneumonia, a serious infection affecting both lungs, causes inflammation and breathing difficulties, making recovery especially taxing for elderly patients.
Despite these challenges, the Vatican has maintained a cautiously optimistic tone in its updates, particularly following two episodes of "acute respiratory failure" the pope suffered on March 3. As he continues treatment, the world watches closely, hoping for his steady recovery.
