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Vatican Reports Pope Francis No Longer Requires Ventilation as His Condition Improves

Pope Francis has stopped using mechanical ventilation for nighttime breathing assistance, and his doctors believe he will continue to improve, according to a recent update from the Vatican. The 88-year-old pontiff has been hospitalized for nearly five weeks due to pneumonia.

The Vatican reported that "the clinical conditions of the Holy Father are confirmed to be improving." Previously, he had relied on non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which involves a mask to help deliver air to his lungs. This ventilatory support has been suspended; however, the pope is still receiving oxygen through a small hose under his nose.

The Vatican's press office indicated that the infection is under control, noting that the pope does not have a fever and his blood tests are normal. Although he has been in a stable or improving condition for two weeks, no timeframe for his discharge has been provided, with officials stating that his recovery is progressing slowly.

Francis is particularly susceptible to lung infections due to a history of pleurisy and the removal of part of one lung. He has been undergoing respiratory physiotherapy to aid his breathing and physical therapy to enhance his mobility, using a wheelchair in recent years because of knee and back pain.

Medical experts not involved in the pope's care have indicated he will likely face ongoing challenges given his age and medical history. This hospitalization marks his longest absence from the public since becoming pontiff in 2013.

In a recent photo released by the Vatican, Francis is seen praying in a chapel. There are indications that he may be discharged by the end of the month, as Britain's King Charles and Queen Camilla plan a visit to Italy and the Vatican in early April, which typically involves coordination with senior Vatican officials.

Francis continues to receive numerous well-wishes, including letters from children. Italy's postal service reported that he has been receiving around 150 kg (331 lbs) of additional mail daily during his stay in the hospital, with a van collecting the correspondence addressed to him each day.