Vatican City: Pope Francis is in stable condition as he continues to receive treatment for bilateral pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, the Holy See Press Office announced Tuesday evening.
According to medical reports, the 88-year-old pope has not shown signs of respiratory failure or bronchospasms. He remains alert, free of fever, and responsive to his treatment.
Earlier in the day, doctors moved him to high-flow oxygen therapy and initiated respiratory physiotherapy. As planned, he will continue with non-invasive mechanical ventilation overnight. His prognosis remains cautiously optimistic.
Throughout the day, Pope Francis alternated between rest and prayer, and he received the Eucharist in the morning. His overall condition—including heart, kidney, and blood values—remains stable.
Doctors noted that occasional bronchospasms are expected in cases of pneumonia, but they continue to monitor his health closely. Well-wishers have gathered outside the hospital, offering prayers for his recovery.
Pope Francis, who has chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed in his youth, experienced two respiratory crises on Monday, marking a setback in his recovery.
Doctors removed a substantial amount of mucus from his lungs and placed him on a non-invasive mechanical ventilation mask to aid his breathing. He slept with the mask through the night but was stable enough on Tuesday morning to switch to high-flow supplemental oxygen delivered through a nasal tube.
Plans were in place to resume the use of the mask while he sleeps on Tuesday night, allowing oxygen to be delivered directly into his lungs via a mask covering his nose and mouth.
Doctors reported that his clinical condition was stable, though his prognosis remained guarded, indicating that he is not yet out of danger.
Francis’ medical team has not provided an in-person update on his condition since 21 February, highlighting the uncertain nature of his hospitalisation, which began on 14 February and is now the longest of his 12-year papacy.
