Pope Francis remains hospitalized in Rome following a diagnosis of double pneumonia two weeks prior, but is reportedly in a continued state of improvement, according to a statement from the Vatican released late Thursday. The Pope, who spent the night peacefully and is now resting, is receiving high-flow oxygen therapy, and while his condition is still considered “guarded,” there is no mention of the word “critical” in the Vatican’s updates for the second day in a row. Despite the improvement, his prognosis will only change once he is stable for “several more days,” the Vatican stated.

The 88-year-old has been in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since Valentine’s Day, initially admitted for respiratory issues that led to his double pneumonia diagnosis. Initially in critical condition, his health has shown slight improvement, although Fox News Channel’s senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel explained that bilateral pneumonia is more complex and challenging to recover from, especially for an elderly patient.

Pope Francis, who has a history of pneumonia and previous surgeries, is not on a ventilator and is receiving high-flow oxygen therapy, which is less aggressive than CPAP or mechanical ventilation. Dr. Siegel noted that this is a positive sign, emphasizing the importance of excellent medical care combined with prayer.

Followers have shown support for the Pope by placing candles with his image outside the Rome hospital where he is receiving treatment.

Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/pope-francis-condition-improving-remain-guarded-until-stable-several-days-vatican