Pope Francis responds well to treatment, Vatican says

The Vatican has stated that Pope Francis is responding well to treatment for bilateral pneumonia in the hospital, and his overall condition is gradually improving. The 88-year-old Pope has been receiving treatment at Rome's Gemelli Hospital for more than three weeks, suffering from a severe respiratory infection that requires continuous adjustment of his treatment plan.

The latest medical update details: "The Pope's clinical condition has remained stable in recent days, thus indicating a good response to treatment." The report also mentioned that the Pope continues to have no fever, and his blood test results remain stable, providing further reassurance about his recovery.

Although doctors have stated that they have observed a "gradual, slight improvement" in the Pope's overall condition, they remain cautious in their prognosis "to ensure that these initial improvements can be sustained in the coming days." The Vatican press office said that the Pope is continuing to receive oxygen therapy to assist his breathing.

In the past two years, the Pope has experienced multiple health issues and is prone to lung infections because he suffered from pleurisy and had part of his lung removed when he was younger. Bilateral pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can cause inflammation and scarring, leading to difficulty breathing.

The Pope has not appeared in public since being admitted to the hospital, marking his longest absence in his nearly 12-year papacy. The Pope's doctors have not stated how long the treatment may last. The Vatican has stated that he will miss his weekly prayer with pilgrims on Sunday for the fourth consecutive week. Doctors not involved in the Pope's treatment have stated that, considering the Pope's age and other long-standing medical conditions, he may face a long and difficult recovery.