Pope Francis health update shows 'gradual, mild improvement'

Gemelli Hospital at night - Screenshot

Source: Vatican Media

The Holy See Press Office has issued the following health update on Pope Francis this evening:

"The Holy Father's clinical condition over the last few days has remained stable and, consequently, shows a good response to the therapies. There is therefore a gradual, mild improvement.

The Holy Father has been without a fever at all times. Breathing gas exchange has improved; results from blood chemistry and blood count examinations are stable.

In order to monitor these initial improvements also in the coming days, the doctors prudently maintain that the prognosis is still guarded.

This morning, after receiving the Eucharist, the Holy Father prayed in the chapel of the private apartment, while in the afternoon he alternated between rest and work activities."

The Holy See Press Office added:

"As planned, the Pope, after receiving high-flow oxygenation with nasal cannulas during the day, will switch to non-invasive mechanical ventilation during the night.

The Pope will follow the spiritual exercises, which begin tomorrow, in spiritual communion with the Roman Curia. The text of the Pope's Angelus will be distributed as done so already on recent Sundays.

Tomorrow, the medical update may not be published, given the stability of his clinical condition, but the Press Office will still provide information to journalists."