Pope Francis is showing a mild but steady improvement while receiving treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, the Vatican announced Saturday.
“The prognosis remains guarded. This morning, the Pope prayed in his chapel, while in the afternoon, he alternated between resting and working,” the statement said.
The 88-year-old pontiff has responded positively to treatment, with stable clinical conditions over the past few days.
Vatican officials noted he has remained fever-free, his breathing has improved, and his blood test results remain steady.
Francis was hospitalized on Feb. 14, marking another episode in his series of health challenges.
Since his election as pope in 2013, he has faced persistent medical issues, including knee problems requiring a wheelchair, a respiratory infection in 2023, and abdominal surgery for a hernia.
Earlier this year, he suffered a minor injury after falling in his quarters.
His health struggles date back to his youth, when he underwent lung surgery at age 21 due to severe pneumonia.
The experience, he later revealed, played a role in his decision to join the Jesuit order.
Despite ongoing ailments, Pope Francis has continued his papal duties, balancing rest and work while under medical care.