Pope Francis’ health is showing significant improvement, as he no longer requires mechanical ventilation to assist his breathing at night, the Vatican announced in a statement.
The 86-year-old pontiff, who has been undergoing treatment for a severe respiratory infection, is said to be steadily recovering at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he has been staying for nearly five weeks.
According to the Vatican’s latest medical update, Pope Francis’ clinical condition has improved, and his doctors are optimistic about his continued recovery.
Previously, the pope had been using non-invasive mechanical ventilation to help with his breathing during the night. This process involved placing a mask over his face to push air into his lungs.
However, the Vatican confirmed that this ventilation method has now been suspended, although Pope Francis is still receiving oxygen via a small hose under his nose to assist with his breathing.
The Holy Father no longer has a fever, and his blood tests are reported to be normal, further suggesting that his infection is under control.
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While the pope’s doctors are hopeful, the Vatican has refrained from providing a specific timeline for his discharge, noting that his recovery is progressing at a slow pace.
It has been two weeks since the Vatican first stated that the pope was in a stable or improving condition.
Pope Francis, who has had a history of lung issues, including pleurisy and the partial removal of a lung as a young man, is currently receiving both respiratory physiotherapy and physical therapy to help improve his mobility.
Due to chronic knee and back pain, he has been using a wheelchair in recent years.
While the pope’s condition has stabilized, experts not directly involved in his care have warned that his age and medical history could make his recovery a long and challenging process.
This hospitalization marks Pope Francis’ longest absence from the public since he became pontiff in 2013.
The Vatican also shared the first image of Pope Francis in the hospital on Sunday, showing him praying in a chapel, a symbol of his ongoing spiritual commitment even in the midst of his health struggles.
