Pope Francis shows signs of improvement, but prognosis remains uncertain

Pope Francis has shown further improvement in his battle against pneumonia, but the Vatican cautions that his prognosis remains reserved, according to an update released on Wednesday.

The 88-year-old pontiff has been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14 after experiencing breathing difficulties and bronchitis, which later worsened into pneumonia. The Vatican’s nightly bulletin reported “a slight improvement” in his condition over the last 24 hours, but emphasized that he is not yet in the clear.

While serious respiratory attacks over the weekend required oxygen and blood transfusions, the Vatican confirmed that these episodes have not recurred. Francis continues to receive oxygen therapy and undergo breathing exercises to aid his recovery. A CT scan performed on Tuesday showed normal progression of his pulmonary inflammation, and blood tests on Wednesday confirmed further improvement. Additionally, a mild renal insufficiency detected earlier has now resolved.

Despite his critical condition, Pope Francis has continued to keep up with Church matters from his hospital suite, according to Vatican officials. However, doctors have warned that his recovery could be long, and he is expected to remain in the hospital beyond this week.

As the leader of nearly 1.4 billion Catholics, Francis’ health struggles have drawn global concern. Pilgrims and the faithful have gathered at St. Peter’s Square and outside the Gemelli Hospital to offer prayers for his recovery. The pope, who is also prone to bronchitis and suffers from hip and knee pain, has relied on a wheelchair in recent years due to mobility issues.

While his condition appears to be stabilizing, the Vatican has not provided a timeline for his discharge, keeping the global Catholic community on edge as they await further updates.