Vatican says Pope shows ‘slight improvement’ as hospitalization continues

Pope Francis, 88, has been showing signs of improvement while undergoing oxygen therapy at the Vatican hospital. He was admitted on Feb. 14 for respiratory issues that were later diagnosed as bilateral pneumonia. Doctors are closely monitoring his condition and have not disclosed his prognosis.

The pontiff recently recorded a message expressing gratitude to those who have been praying for his recovery. Vatican sources noted that the sound of the oxygen machine could be heard in the audio, indicating the pope’s ongoing treatment. Due to his health condition, Pope Francis was unable to lead the Ash Wednesday mass, and Cardinal Angelo De Donatis delivered his homily at Rome’s Santa Sabrina Basilica.

Pope Francis has a history of respiratory problems, having undergone lung surgery at the age of 21 for pleurisy. Currently, he is receiving therapy for bilateral pneumonia. Catholics worldwide have been offering prayers for his speedy recovery, including Vice President JD Vance, who prayed for the pope’s health during the National Prayer Breakfast.

Mexican painter Roberto Marquez displayed a painting of Pope Francis outside the hospital, showing support for the beloved pontiff. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni also visited him in the hospital, reassuring the public that despite his illness, Pope Francis is in good spirits.

As the world awaits updates on Pope Francis’s health, the Vatican continues to provide updates on his progress. The global Catholic community remains united in prayer for the leader of the Catholic Church during this challenging time.

Rachel Wolf, a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital and FOX Business, contributed to this article.