Wed Mar 19 19:31:05 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis’s Condition Improves, Oxygen Mask Suspended
**Vatican City** – Pope Francis’s health is improving, the Vatican announced Wednesday, revealing that the 88-year-old pontiff has suspended the use of his oxygen mask. While his pneumonia remains under control, the positive update follows over a month of hospitalization at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where he was admitted on February 14th for treatment of bilateral pneumonia.
The Vatican’s medical bulletin confirmed significant progress, noting that the Pope has discontinued non-invasive mechanical ventilation and reduced his reliance on high-flow oxygen therapy. His respiratory and motor physiotherapy is also showing positive results. However, the press office cautioned that the suspension of the oxygen mask is not a guarantee it won’t be needed again, and his discharge from the hospital is not yet imminent.
While the Pope has experienced periods of improved breathing over the past week, including brief stretches without supplemental oxygen, the Vatican stressed that the pneumonia has not been entirely eradicated. The frequency of medical updates has also been reduced, with the next bulletin expected no sooner than Monday. This contrasts with the daily updates provided during the more critical stages of his hospitalization.
The Pope’s prolonged hospital stay has raised questions about the scheduling of upcoming religious events leading up to Easter. The Vatican stated that no decisions have yet been made regarding who will lead these important ceremonies. Pope Francis previously underwent the removal of a lung portion in his youth.
First Piper 