Vatican City: Pope Francis has stopped using mechanical ventilation at night, and his doctors remain optimistic about his continued recovery, the Vatican confirmed on Wednesday. The latest update marks significant progress for the 88-year-old pontiff as he battles pneumonia.
Francis has been receiving treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for nearly five weeks due to a severe respiratory infection. During his hospitalization, he relied on non-invasive mechanical ventilation overnight, which involved a mask assisting airflow into his lungs. However, according to the Vatican’s statement, this form of support has now been “suspended.”
Despite this improvement, the pope is still receiving oxygen through a nasal cannula, a small hose placed under the nose, to aid his breathing.
Doctors Optimistic, But Recovery Remains Gradual
The Vatican press office, citing medical assessments, stated that Francis’s infection appears to be under control. His latest blood tests returned normal, and he is no longer running a fever.
For the past two weeks, officials have described his condition as stable and improving, yet they have not provided a specific timeline for his discharge. The Vatican maintains that his recovery is progressing slowly.
Francis has a history of lung complications, stemming from pleurisy in his youth, which led to the partial removal of one lung. His current treatment includes respiratory physiotherapy to support his breathing and physical therapy to improve mobility. The pontiff has used a wheelchair in recent years due to chronic knee and back pain.
Medical experts unaffiliated with his case caution that, given his age and underlying health conditions, his path to full recovery may be prolonged and challenging.
Hospital Stay Extends, but Signs of Progress Emerge
The pope’s hospitalization marks his longest period away from public appearances since he assumed the papacy in 2013. On Sunday, the Vatican released the first image of Francis at the hospital, showing him in prayer inside a chapel.
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In a potential sign that the Vatican anticipates his discharge by the end of the month, Britain’s King Charles III announced plans to proceed with his scheduled visit to Italy and the Vatican in early April. The royal itinerary includes a tentative meeting with Pope Francis on April 8, an appointment typically arranged in close coordination with senior Vatican officials.
Outpouring of Well-Wishes
Throughout his hospital stay, Francis has received a flood of messages from well-wishers around the world, including heartfelt letters from children.
Italy’s postal service reported that the pope has been receiving an additional 150 kg (331 lb) of mail per day, with letters and messages expressing prayers and hopes for his swift recovery. To accommodate the influx, the hospital has arranged for a dedicated van to collect and deliver his correspondence daily.
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While Francis’s health remains under careful monitoring, his steady improvement offers hope that he will soon be able to resume his official duties.
