Pope Francis’s condition remains critical but has shown a “slight improvement,” according to the Vatican’s latest update on the 88-year-old pontiff’s health, as reported by Al Jazeera.
In a statement released on Monday, the Vatican said, “The clinical conditions of the Holy Father, in their critical nature, show a slight improvement.” The statement noted that there had been no asthmatic respiratory attacks that day and that some of the Pope’s laboratory test results had improved. Despite his condition, Francis worked in the afternoon after receiving the Eucharist in the morning.
The Pope remains on oxygen therapy, though the flow and oxygen percentage have been slightly reduced, indicating some positive response to treatment.
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 due to breathing difficulties, and his condition worsened shortly after his admission. He is currently battling pneumonia in both lungs and dealing with kidney issues, making this his longest hospital stay in his nearly 12-year papacy.
Double pneumonia is a serious infection that inflames and scars both lungs, often leading to significant breathing challenges. The Vatican described the infection as “complex,” caused by two or more microorganisms, making treatment more difficult.
The head of the Catholic Church, who has served as pope since 2013, has faced recurring health issues over the past two years. His vulnerability to lung infections stems from pleurisy he suffered as a young adult, which led to the partial removal of one lung.
Francis’s continued hospitalisation has sparked a global wave of concern and support. A special prayer session was organized on Monday evening in St. Peter’s Square in Rome, drawing crowds of well-wishers. Tributes have also been left outside the Gemelli Hospital where he is receiving treatment.
Earlier on Monday, the Vatican reported that the Pope had spent a peaceful night. A Vatican source mentioned that Francis was “not in pain,” eating “normally,” and even “in a good mood,” offering a glimmer of hope for his recovery.
