Pope Francis, who has been hospitalised for two weeks with double pneumonia, remains in “stable condition” with no recurrence of the previous day’s respiratory crisis, the Vatican said on Saturday.
The 88-year-old pontiff showed signs of improvement, spending extended periods off noninvasive mechanical ventilation, indicating better lung function.
He has not experienced further bronchial spasms following Friday’s severe coughing fit, during which he inhaled vomit. He remained fever-free with no signs of new infection, ate solid food and drank coffee for breakfast, and continued his respiratory physiotherapy.
The elderly pontiff, aged 88, showed positive signs with improved gas exchange levels during extended periods without the ventilator mask, whilst using high-flow supplemental oxygen. However, his condition remained serious, requiring continued medical attention, the Associated Press reported.
The Vatican stated that “The Holy Father is always vigilant” and fully aware of his surroundings. He actively participated in religious observances, receiving the Eucharist and spending 20 minutes in prayer in a private chapel near his 10th-floor hospital room.
This encouraging update followed a deterioration in his condition on Friday during his ongoing treatment for pneumonia.
Following a bronchial episode, medical staff removed the regurgitated content and implemented noninvasive mechanical ventilation to supply oxygen to his lungs. The medical team noted this incident caused an acute deterioration in his breathing condition.
Throughout these procedures, the Pope maintained consciousness and alertness, actively participating in his treatment protocol.
His ability to utilise high-flow oxygen for extended durations on Saturday, without compromising blood oxygen levels, indicated progress in his respiratory function.
The Pope, who underwent partial lung removal in his youth, suffers from lung disease and was admitted to Gemelli following bronchitis complications that developed into bilateral pneumonia.
The faithful continue offering prayers during his hospitalisation, which coincides with the Vatican’s Holy Year celebrations attracting global pilgrims to Rome. Visitors are passing through St. Peter’s Basilica’s Holy Door and travelling to Assisi to worship at St. Francis’ sanctuary.
“Every day we’re praying for the pope,” said the Rev. Jacinto Bento, a priest accompanying 30 Jubilee pilgrims from the Azores Islands to Assisi on Saturday.
“We’re very sad for his situation,” Bento added.