The latest news from the Vatican indicates that Pope Francis' overall health condition remains stable despite his complex medical situation. On Friday, the Vatican released a statement confirming that the prognosis for the 88-year-old pontiff remains reserved. This update follows his recent hospitalization, which began on February 14 due to a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia.
According to the Vatican, Pope Francis spent around 20 minutes in prayer in his chapel located on the 10th floor of his apartment. The rest of his day was structured around alternating periods of rest, physiotherapy, prayer, and a little bit of work. The pontiff continues to rely on high-flow oxygen therapy during the day and non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night, a regimen he has maintained throughout his hospital stay.
In a positive turn of events, the pope experienced a tranquil night and woke shortly after 8 a.m. on Friday. This update comes just a day after he made his first public comments since his hospitalization. In a heartfelt message delivered in Spanish, he expressed gratitude for the prayers offered for his health, saying, “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the Square; I accompany you from here. May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you.” This message was played at the beginning of the rosary in St. Peter's Square.
The Vatican's press office reported that the pope is continuing with both respiratory and motor physiotherapy, showing beneficial results. His hemodynamic parameters and blood tests remain stable, and he has not presented any fever. However, the medical team continues to maintain a reserved prognosis regarding his health.
In light of the stability in Pope Francis' clinical picture, the Vatican has announced that it will not provide another medical update until Saturday. As the pontiff marks his 22nd consecutive day in the hospital, the faithful around the world remain hopeful for his recovery.
