Pope Francis continues to improve gradually

The Holy Father, who has been confined for more than a month at the Gemelli Hospital, continues to show minor improvements in his health condition. Through their regular updates, the Holy See Press Office said that Pope Francis’ requirement for oxygen supplementation has been decreasing. On Monday evening, March 17, he did not require supplementation via non-invasive mechanical ventilation for the first time. However, he continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy day and night.

In addition, last Sunday, March 16, the Holy Father was photographed for the first time since February 14 -his first day of confinement. In the photo, Francis is seen concelebrating the mass at the chapel of the tenth-floor apartment at the Hospital. The Holy Father continues to spend his day in prayer, rest and work while continuing his prescribed respiratory and physical therapies.

There have been no new reports of episodes of respiratory distress, abnormal laboratory results and of new onset fever nor cough. (Natalie Hazel Quimlat)

The first photo of Pope Francis since he entered Gemelli Hospital on February 14, 2025. HOLY SEE PRESS OFFICE