Pope Francis now eating solid foods, showing ‘slight gradual improvements’

Pope Francis Continues Therapy and Prescribed Diet, Showing Signs of Improvement

Pope Francis is continuing his therapy and prescribed diet, which now includes solid foods, according to an update from the Vatican on Sunday. The Vatican reported that he underwent respiratory and motor physiotherapy, and his condition is showing slight gradual improvements. However, doctors are maintaining a guarded prognosis due to the complex nature of his overall situation.

The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Feb. 14 after his bronchitis worsened, leading to a diagnosis of a viral, bacterial, and fungal respiratory tract infection, followed by pneumonia in both lungs. Despite this challenging health crisis, Francis has been responding well to treatment and has shown a gradual, mild improvement in recent days.

This marks the fourth consecutive week that Pope Francis will not be appearing for his weekly noon blessing, but the Vatican has stated that they will distribute the message he would have delivered. Doctors have noted that his condition has remained stable, with no fever and good oxygen levels in his blood for several days, indicating a positive response to therapy.

This positive response is significant, as it is the first time since his hospitalization over three weeks ago that doctors have reported such progress. Pope Francis, who has chronic lung disease and underwent lung surgery earlier in life, has been receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen during the day and using a noninvasive mechanical ventilation mask at night to aid his breathing.

Despite his absence, the Vatican’s daily operations continue, including the ongoing celebrations of the Holy Year, a once-every-quarter-century Jubilee that attracts pilgrims from around the world to Rome. This weekend’s focus is on honoring volunteers, with Canadian Cardinal Michael Czerny presiding over the Holy Year Mass on Sunday.

As Pope Francis continues his recovery, well-wishers and supporters are extending their prayers and best wishes for his health outside the hospital. The Vatican remains hopeful for his continued progress and eventual return to his duties as the leader of the Catholic Church.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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