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Pope Francis remains hospitalized in Rome after being diagnosed with double pneumonia two weeks ago, but is in a continued state of improvement, according to a statement from the Vatican late Thursday.
“As in previous days, the Pope had a peaceful night and is now resting,” the Vatican said, notably omitting the word “critical” from its update for the second day in a row.
The statement said the high-flow oxygen therapy he has been receiving now includes treatments with a ventimask.
Despite his improvement, the 88-year-old pontiff’s prognosis remains “guarded” and will not change until he is stable for “several more days,” the Vatican said.
Siegel also touched on the pope receiving high-flow oxygen therapy, explaining that the treatment is used for breathing issues, “but is not as aggressive as CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) or mechanical ventilation.” Siegel said it is a “good sign” that the pope is not on a ventilator.
“Don’t underestimate the impact of great medical care combined with the power of prayer,” Siegel added.
Candles adorned with pictures of Pope Francis have been placed outside the hospital in Rome, Italy, where he is being held. (AP/Gregorio Borgia)
The pope has grappled with health issues for years and even needed to have part of his lung removed in 1957 after battling pneumonia at 21 years old. He also underwent heart surgery in 2021 and 2023.