Pope Francis’s health continued to improve on Thursday, marking the second consecutive day of progress as the 88-year-old pontiff remains hospitalized with pneumonia in both lungs. The Vatican issued an update, confirming that his condition showed further signs of improvement, although experts cautioned that the road to full recovery remains uncertain.
The pope, who has been at Rome’s Gemelli hospital since February 14, is receiving ongoing respiratory therapy, including high-flow oxygen therapy and physiotherapy. Despite these positive updates, the Vatican emphasised that the clinical situation remains complex, and further days of stability are necessary to assess his recovery.
Although Francis is still receiving oxygen and undergoing breathing exercises, medical professionals have expressed that his prognosis is still reserved, noting that his age and prior respiratory issues make his condition critical. The pontiff’s deterioration over the weekend had raised fears for his survival, but he has since avoided a repeat of a severe respiratory episode that had required high levels of oxygen.
The pope’s resilience has inspired many, with pilgrims continuing to gather outside the hospital to pray and leave offerings. Among those visiting on Thursday were a group of Mexican pilgrims who expressed deep hope for his recovery.
Medical experts continue to stress that the path to full recovery could be long, and while progress is being made, Francis remains in critical condition, requiring further observation and care.
