Pope Francis Shows Improvement Amid Ongoing Hospitalization

VATICAN CITY, February 27, 2025 — Pope Francis experienced a restful night and is showing signs of health improvement, according to the Vatican’s press office. The pontiff has been hospitalized since February 14 at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic after being diagnosed with pneumonia.

This morning’s update confirmed that Pope Francis, 88, had breakfast, continued with prescribed treatments, and underwent additional medical tests. He remains on high-flow oxygen therapy and has been informed of the many prayer initiatives organized for his health. Despite the challenges, the Pope’s spirits are reportedly good.

“The Pope slept well last night and is currently resting,” the Vatican’s statement noted. However, his scheduled jubilee audience for Saturday, March 1, has been canceled due to his ongoing hospitalization.

Last night’s medical bulletin reported a “slight improvement” in his condition. Doctors indicated that a recent chest CT scan showed a “normal evolution” of the inflammatory lung condition. According to medical experts, the continued oxygen therapy is critical as the Pope navigates his recovery.

“The clinical state of His Holiness has shown a slight improvement in the last 24 hours,” the medical report stated. “The mild renal insufficiency previously noted has receded. Although there is a slight improvement, the prognosis continues to be reserved.”

Additional testing conducted this morning revealed stable platelet levels, though some blood tests indicated an initial mild renal insufficiency that is being monitored. “The complexity of the clinical picture, combined with the time required for pharmacological treatments to yield results, means that the prognosis remains uncertain,” the Vatican added.

On Sunday, the Pope participated in a Mass with the hospital staff caring for him, demonstrating his resolve and gratitude towards his medical team. “I sincerely thank the doctors and healthcare workers at this hospital for their attention and dedication,” he expressed in a written prayer.

The Vatican has stated that aside from his medical team and a few close aides, the Pope has not received visitors during this period. His continued health will be closely monitored by the attending physicians.

Pope Francis has led the Catholic Church since 2013 and has experienced health challenges in recent months. His hospitalization began after an episode of bronchitis, further complicated by pneumonia, prompting ongoing concern from both medical staff and the public.