The Vatican reported on Saturday that the Pope's health is gradually improving as he battles double pneumonia in the hospital. He has reduced the use of mechanical ventilation at night to aid his breathing. The latest update described the 88-year-old pontiff's condition as stable, showing progress over the past week since his admission to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14.
Due to his lung infection susceptibility, Pope Francis has not been seen in public since his hospitalization, marking the longest absence during his papacy, which has now lasted for several weeks. This Sunday, he will miss his fifth consecutive week of prayers with pilgrims.
The Vatican specified that the pontiff is receiving ongoing medical treatments, respiratory physiotherapy, and physical therapy to improve his mobility, all of which are showing gradual enhancements. While he continues to receive oxygen, the need for non-invasive mechanical ventilation during nighttime hours is decreasing.
His discharge date remains uncertain as the Vatican labeled his recovery as slow. Medical updates are now being issued every few days, as opposed to the previous twice-daily updates.
During his youth, the Pope experienced pleurisy and had part of one lung removed. Despite his health challenges, including exhaustion from his tireless work ethic, the Vatican announced that earlier in the week, Pope Francis endorsed consideration of reforms within the global Catholic Church, indicating his commitment to remain as the Pope.