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Pope Francis Shows Improvement but Remains Hospitalized for Pneumonia

Doctors report the 88-year-old pontiff is no longer in imminent danger, though his recovery will require continued treatment in a hospital setting.

Nuns attend a Rosary prayer for Pope Francis, in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Monday, March 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)
Christian Catholic worshippers pray as they walk towards St. Peter's Square, in Rome, Monday, March 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)
Screenshot comparison of the falsely shared video (left) and the Vatican News video from August 2024 (right)
Members of different organizations of volunteers follow Cardinal Michael Czerny, delegate of Pope Francis who is being treated for pneumonia at Rome's Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, celebrating a mass for the world of volunteers in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican, Sunday, March 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Overview

  • Pope Francis, hospitalized since February 14 with double pneumonia, is now stable and responding well to treatment, according to the Vatican.
  • Doctors have lifted the pope's 'guarded' prognosis, indicating he is no longer in immediate danger of death, though his condition remains complex.
  • The pontiff has resumed some activities, including participating remotely in the Vatican's Lenten spiritual retreat and holding meetings with senior Vatican officials.
  • Medical updates confirm Francis is undergoing respiratory and physical therapy and continues to use supplemental oxygen during the day and a ventilation mask at night.
  • The pope's prolonged hospitalization, the longest of his papacy, has raised questions about his ability to lead as the Catholic Church approaches key events like Easter.