Pope Francis’ health has shown a “slight improvement,” but he remains in a critical condition, the Vatican has confirmed.
The 88-year-old pontiff has been receiving treatment for double pneumonia and chronic bronchitis at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14.
In a statement on Monday evening, the Vatican said:
“The clinical conditions of the Holy Father, in their critical state, show a slight improvement. Even today, there were no episodes of asthmatic respiratory crises; some laboratory tests improved.
“Monitoring of mild renal failure is not a cause for concern. Oxygen therapy continues, although with a slightly reduced flow and oxygen percentage.
“The doctors, considering the complexity of the clinical picture, are prudently not releasing the prognosis yet. In the morning, he received the Eucharist, while in the afternoon, he resumed work activity.
“In the evening, he called the Parish Priest of the Parish of Gaza to express his paternal closeness. Pope Francis thanks all the people of God who have gathered in these days to pray for his health.”
Over the weekend, the Pope suffered a “prolonged respiratory crisis” that required a high flow of oxygen. He also experienced an “initial, mild” kidney issue and underwent blood transfusions due to thrombocytopenia, a condition linked to anemia.
Doctors said on Friday that he was “not out of danger” and is expected to remain in the hospital for at least another week. They warned that the primary threat to his recovery is sepsis, a severe complication of pneumonia that can lead to organ failure.
Pope Francis has a history of respiratory illness, having lost part of a lung to pleurisy in his youth. He also battled an acute case of pneumonia in 2023.
His deteriorating health has sparked speculation about a possible resignation, though the Vatican has not commented on the matter.
In a message released on Sunday, the Pope expressed gratitude for the support he has received:
“In recent days, I have received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children.
“Thank you for this closeness and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world! I entrust you all to the intercession of Mary and ask you to pray for me.”
Millions of Catholics worldwide continue to pray for his recovery.
