The 88-year-old pontiff has been hospitalized for three weeks after developing bilateral pneumonia.
Pope Francis’ condition has improved significantly in recent days, the Vatican announced March 10, adding that while doctors no longer consider him to be in immediate danger due to pneumonia, they are opting to keep him hospitalized for continued treatment.
“The clinical condition of the Holy Father remains stable,” the Holy See Press Office said in a statement. “The improvements recorded in previous days have been further consolidated, as confirmed by both blood tests and clinical findings, as well as by the Pope’s good response to pharmacological therapy.”
As a result, doctors have lifted their “guarded prognosis,” signaling a degree of confidence in his recovery. Still, the Vatican emphasized the need to continue the pontiff’s treatment in a hospital.
“Given the complexity of the Pope’s clinical picture and the severe infection present at the time of hospitalization, it will still be necessary to continue pharmacological treatment in a hospital setting for several more days,” the Vatican stated.
The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital nearly three weeks ago after developing bilateral pneumonia. His condition worsened on March 3, when he suffered two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency due to a significant buildup of endobronchial mucus and bronchospasm, which blocked his airways.
Doctors performed two bronchoscopies to remove the secretions, after which the pope was placed back on noninvasive mechanical ventilation to stabilize his breathing. The Vatican confirmed that he continued to receive respiratory therapy, including high-flow oxygen.
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Francis has battled respiratory issues for much of his life. As a young man, he underwent surgery to remove part of one lung due to a severe pulmonary infection. His history of bronchial complications has made him particularly vulnerable to pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses.
Despite his hospitalization, the pontiff has remained engaged in his duties. On Monday, he remotely took part in both morning and afternoon sessions of the Vatican’s annual Spiritual Exercises via video link, the Vatican said. He also received the Eucharist and took a moment for private prayer in the chapel of his hospital apartment.
Earlier reports from the Vatican on Monday indicated that Francis had a “quiet night” and was able to resume both respiratory and motor physiotherapy in the morning.
As concerns about the pope’s health have grown, world leaders, religious figures, and Catholic faithful around the world have continued to offer their prayers and good wishes.
Francis has led the Catholic Church since March 17, 2013, and has maintained an active schedule despite his advanced age and health challenges.
