Pope Francis, who was diagnosed with double pneumonia two weeks ago, remains hospitalized in Rome but is showing continued signs of recovery, according to a Vatican statement released late Thursday.
The Vatican reported that the Pope had a restful night and is currently resting, omitting the word “critical” from their update for the second consecutive day.
The statement also noted that his high-flow oxygen therapy now includes treatment with a ventimask.
Despite the progress, the 88-year-old pontiff’s prognosis is still considered “guarded” and will remain so until his condition stabilizes for “several more days.”
The Pope was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Valentine’s Day due to respiratory problems and subsequently diagnosed with double pneumonia. Initially in critical condition, he has since shown slight improvement.
Earlier this week, Channel’s senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel commented on the Pope’s condition, explaining that bilateral pneumonia “is more problematic and more difficult to recover from,” particularly for “an elderly patient with scarring from previous surgeries and bouts of pneumonia.”
Siegel also discussed the Pope’s treatment, explaining it is used for breathing issues, “but is not as aggressive as CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) or mechanical ventilation,” adding that it’s a “good sign” the Pope is not on a ventilator.
“Don’t underestimate the impact of great medical care combined with the power of prayer,” Siegel added.
The Pope has a history of health concerns, including the removal of part of his lung in 1957 following a bout of pneumonia at age 21. He also underwent heart surgery in 2021 and 2023.
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