Pope Francis has improved enough to stop him at immediate risk from pneumonia and other infectious diseases, the Vatican said Monday, but added that he will need more treatment at the Rome Hospital, which was nearly a month later.
For weeks, doctors said that Francis, who entered the hospital after suffering from breathing difficulty at age 88, had a “protected” prognosis because respiratory infections in both of his lungs were too serious to be at risk. However, his “good response to pharmacological therapy” and stable blood tests have led doctors to believe that recent improvements have been “more integrated.”
“However, considering the complexity of the clinical picture and the significant infectious picture presented at the time of hospitalization,” the Vatican added, adding that his treatment will continue in the “hospital environment.”
On Monday, Francis continued through video link spiritual exercises by members of Vatican clergy, sending sad dol awareness to Argentina's flood victims, who are the victims of his country's floods. Recently he met with Li, who was on his top in the hospital, sent an audio message in a tense, weak voice, and faithfully thanked their prayers.
The Vatican was expected to stay at the hospital where the Pope arrived on February 14, but for several days he didn't give him an estimate of when Francis was expected to leave due to his complicated circumstances, Vatican officials said.
Oxygen Francis sometimes suffers from a serious setback, including a crisis in which he choked with his own vomit and demanded that doctors volunteer him. He also requires blood transfusions and non-invasive mechanical ventilation.
The Pope's health failed put the Roman Catholic Church on the edge. Every night at St. Peter Square, the Cardinals restored those who were faithful to the Rosary prayers. While Catholics around the world are holding rallies, top Vatican officials have tried to curb speculation about his condition and stories of his resignation.
However, the Pope had not overcome the pneumonia and had other health problems, Vatican officials said it still contained bronchiectasis (a chronic lung condition), which could pose a serious risk.
The bishop's history of age and health also urges his doctors to remain cautious, officials said. Francis removed a portion of his lungs as a young man and was previously hospitalized for respiratory infections and colon surgery.
