How is Pope Francis? Doctors Give Big Health Update As World Prays for His Recovery- wna24

Rome: Pope Francis is ‘out of imminent danger’ but continues to be hospitalised. The doctors have given a major health update for the 88-year-old pontiff who has been battling double pneumonia for almost a month. Here’s what the doctors at Gemelli Hospital have to say about Pope Francis’ health…

In a health update by the doctors at the Gemelli Hospital, the 88-year-old pontiff is ‘no longer in imminent danger of death’ but since he is old and has been battling double pneumonia, he will be kept under observation in the hospital, for several more days. The doctors have stated that the 88-year-old pope’s condition is stable and has shown notable improvements in recent days, as indicated by his blood tests and favorable reactions to the prescribed treatments. The statement released by the Vatican reads, “However, in view of the complexity of the clinical picture and the important infectious picture presented on admission, it will be necessary to continue medical drug therapy in a hospital setting for additional days.”

Also Read: Pope Francis Responding Well to Pneumonia Therapy, But Doctors Remain Cautious

In its initial update on Monday, the Vatican reported that Pope Francis had resumed his physical and respiratory therapy at the Gemelli hospital following a restful night. During the day, he has been using a nasal tube for supplemental oxygen, and at night, he relies on a noninvasive mechanical ventilation mask to assist with breathing. 

On Monday, Pope Francis attended the Vatican’s week-long spiritual retreat through a video conference, continuing his recovery from double pneumonia while reflecting on the upcoming 12th anniversary of his papacy, amid ongoing speculation about its future. Like on Sunday, Francis joined the retreat remotely from the hospital in Rome where he is receiving treatment. He was able to see and hear Father Roberto Pasolini, the preacher of the papal household, but the priests, bishops, and cardinals present at the retreat in the Vatican auditorium could neither see nor hear him.

As a sign that Pope Francis remained attentive to current events, the Vatican revealed that he had been briefed on the floods in his home country of Argentina and had expressed his solidarity with those affected. Additionally, on Monday, a Vatican cardinal with close ties to Francis addressed and dismissed some of the negative media coverage that had emerged during his absence.

Also Read: ‘Thank You from the Bottom of My Heart’: Pope Francis Releases New Audio Message from Hospital

The 88-year-old pope, who has a history of chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed in his youth, was initially hospitalized last month with what appeared to be a severe case of bronchitis. However, the condition developed into a complicated respiratory infection and double pneumonia, leading to the longest period of absence in his 12-year papacy and prompting concerns about his future. For over a week now, Francis has remained stable, with no fever, respiratory complications, and consistently good oxygen levels, according to his doctors.

The medical team noted that his stability is a positive sign, indicating he is responding well to treatment. However, they have kept his prognosis “guarded,” suggesting that he is not yet out of danger. Doctors are expected to provide another update later on Monday.