Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized for nearly three weeks due to double pneumonia, experienced another “calm” night and is continuing to rest, the Vatican announced on Thursday.
The 88-year-old leader was admitted to the Gemelli hospital in Rome on February 14 due to a severe respiratory infection that has required ongoing treatment adjustments.
On Wednesday, the Vatican reported that his condition had remained stable throughout the day, enabling him to engage in some work and to increase his physiotherapy for both respiratory function and mobility.
It was noted that he did not experience any respiratory crises, which had been intermittent in previous days.
Francis has not made any public appearances since being admitted to the hospital, marking the longest such absence in his 12-year papacy. His physicians have not indicated how long the treatment may continue.
When not on mechanical ventilation—which assists in air delivery to his lungs without the need for sedation—the pope receives a high flow of oxygen through small nasal tubes.
See more: The Vatican Cancels Pope Francis’ Plans for the Weekend.
Over the past two years, the pope has faced several health challenges and is vulnerable to lung infections due to having had pleurisy in his youth and having undergone partial lung removal.
Double pneumonia is a serious infection affecting both lungs that can cause inflammation and scarring, leading to breathing difficulties.
