VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis rested well overnight and is in a stable condition as he fights double pneumonia in hospital for the 18th day, the Vatican said on Monday.
88-year-old pontiff no longer needs mechanical ventilation for breathing and has been free of fever, according to the Vatican’s latest medical update released on Sunday evening.
“The pope rested well all night,” said a one-line note from the Vatican on Monday morning that did not provide more details. A full medical update on the pope’s condition is expected on Monday evening.
Francis was hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14 due to severe respiratory issues that rapidly progressed into double pneumonia. This serious infection affects both lungs, causing inflammation and scarring that can significantly hinder breathing.
However, the statement indicated that the doctors are maintaining a “guarded” outlook on the pope’s prognosis because of the complexity of his condition, signifying that he is still in a precarious situation.
