Vatican issues health update on 88-year-old Pope Francis

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By Michelle H

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Pope Francis, 88, remains in critical but stable condition at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he has been receiving treatment since February 14 for double pneumonia.

Despite the severity of his illness, the Pope has shown remarkable resilience, continuing to fulfill his papal duties from his hospital bed.

GettyImages-1602839004 (1).jpgThe Pope is showing signs of "slight improvement". Credit: Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images

According to the Holy See Press Office, "The Pope had a quiet night and is resting."

The statement went on to add that the Pope is in "clinical condition remains critical but stable. There have been no acute respiratory episodes, and hemodynamic parameters continue to be stable."

"In the evening, he underwent a scheduled CT scan to radiologically monitor the bilateral pneumonia. The prognosis remains guarded," Tuesday evening's statement continued. "In the morning, after receiving the Eucharist, he resumed work activities.”

GettyImages-2196537735.jpgThe Pope's prognosis remains "guarded". Credit: Vatican Pool / Getty

Medical updates indicate that there have been no acute respiratory episodes, and his hemodynamic parameters remain stable.

A scheduled CT scan was performed to monitor the bilateral pneumonia, with the prognosis remaining cautious. In the morning, after receiving the Eucharist, Pope Francis resumed work activities. 

Demonstrating his unwavering commitment, the Pope has authorized steps toward sainthood for several individuals. He approved decrees for the beatification and canonization of figures such as Father Emil Joseph Kapaun, a U.S. Army chaplain who served in World War II and the Korean War, and Italian carabinieri Salvo D'Acquisto.

GettyImages-1340266683.jpgNostradamus made a eerie prediction about The Pope. Credit: Sean Gallup / Getty

These decisions were made during meetings with Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra at the hospital. 

The Vatican has organized nightly prayer vigils, drawing thousands of faithful, including notable figures like Cardinals Raymond Burke and Gerhard Müller.

These gatherings are evidence of the global concern and support for the Pope's recovery. While the Pope's health has shown slight improvements, medical professionals remain vigilant due to the potential risks associated with his condition.

The Catholic community worldwide continues to offer prayers and support during this challenging time.

 Featured image credit: Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images