Pope Francis is responding positively to treatment for double pneumonia, exhibiting “gradual, slight improvement” in recent days, the Vatican announced on Saturday.
However, his doctors have maintained a guarded prognosis, indicating that the 88-year-old pontiff remains in a precarious condition.
According to a Vatican statement, Francis, who suffers from chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed in his youth, has shown stability, with no fever and satisfactory oxygen levels.
The medical team stated that this stability “as a consequence testifies to a good response to therapy.” It marked the first official confirmation that the pontiff was reacting well to his treatment following his hospitalisation on February 14.
Despite entering his fourth week at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where he has endured bouts of acute respiratory distress, Francis continued a limited routine of work and rest on Saturday.
“In order to record these initial improvements in the coming days as well, his doctors have prudently maintained the prognosis as guarded,” the Vatican statement affirmed.
Also read: Pope Francis' health improves, but under 'guarded' prognosis
During Francis’ hospital stay, the Vatican’s daily operations continued unabated. Cardinal Pietro Parolin led a Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica for an anti-abortion group, delivering a message from the ailing pope.
In his address, dated March 5 and directed to the Movement for Life, Francis underscored the importance of safeguarding life, from conception to natural death.
Francis wrote, “for the elderly, no longer independent or the incurably ill,” underscoring the need to advocate for life at all stages.
Later on Saturday, Canadian Cardinal Michael Czerny, a close associate of Francis, presided over prayers for the pope, and he is scheduled to celebrate the Holy Year Mass for volunteers on Sunday, a duty initially assigned to Francis.
The pontiff continues to rely on high-flow supplemental oxygen during the day and utilises a non-invasive mechanical ventilation mask at night to aid his breathing.
Initially hospitalised for what was diagnosed as severe bronchitis, his condition escalated into a complex respiratory tract infection and double pneumonia, leading to the longest hospital stay of his 12-year papacy.
His prolonged illness has inevitably sparked concerns about the future of his leadership.
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