What is the current status of Pope Francis's health after two weeks of pneumonia treatment?

Pope Francis's condition remains critical but stable, with slight improvements noted. He is still receiving oxygen therapy and undergoing respiratory physiotherapy, but has not had any recent respiratory crises.

How are upcoming events in the Vatican affected by Pope Francis's health?

Several events have been altered or canceled due to Pope Francis's health. The Vatican canceled a Holy Year audience, and it is uncertain if he will participate in his Sunday blessing. Additionally, Cardinal Angelo De Donatis will handle Ash Wednesday duties.

What significant events does Pope Francis have scheduled in the coming months?

Pope Francis has several important engagements scheduled, including the canonization of Carlo Acutis on April 27 and a potential visit to Turkey for the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea on May 24.

How is the Vatican maintaining its operations during Pope Francis's recovery?

Despite his health issues, Pope Francis continues to work from his hospital room, and the Vatican has maintained its daily operations. Recent announcements include the appointment of new bishops and a new fundraising initiative.

7 sources·Health

Pope Francis Shows Steady Improvement in Pneumonia Recovery Amid Revised Schedules

After two weeks of pneumonia treatment, Pope Francis shows improvement, but health uncertainties lead to changes in upcoming events like Ash Wednesday services.

43%

57%

The distribution of story sources: left-leaning (blue), center (light gray), and right-leaning (red).

Mostly Reliable

The underlying sources are generally reliable but sometimes include opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.

Balanced

The underlying sources are either a balanced mix of left and right or primarily centrist.

The improvements beat back speculation of an imminent death or resignation and signaled that he was still very much in charge.
Vatican makes new plans for Ash Wednesday as Pope Francis reaches 2-week mark at hospital
New York Post·24d
Mostly Reliable
This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
·
Leans Right
This outlet slightly leans right.
Francis has suffered several bouts of ill health over the past two years.
Pope Francis is resting after another peaceful night, Vatican says
NBC News·24d
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
While the Vatican said the Pope's health is improving it added "further days of clinical stability are necessary to resolve the prognosis".
Pope's health improving as he remains in hospital
BBC News·24d
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Despite his improvements, Francis’ near-term upcoming calendar of events was being changed.
New Plans for Ash Wednesday as Pope Recovers
Newsmax·24d
Mixed Reliable
This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
·
Right
This outlet favors right-wing views.
Despite his improvements, Francis’ near-term upcoming calendar of events was being changed.
Pope reaches 2-week mark at hospital with pneumonia and doctors suggest he's overcome the worst
Associated Press·24d
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

Updated: Feb 28th, 2025, 12:29 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Pope Francis has reached the two-week mark in his recovery from pneumonia, showing significant improvement but remaining under medical supervision at Gemelli Hospital. While doctors have noted he has surpassed the critical phase of his respiratory infection, they caution that he is not yet entirely out of danger. As a precaution, the Vatican has delegated Ash Wednesday duties to Cardinal Angelo De Donatis. Francis's condition remains stable; however, several upcoming events, including a Holy Year audience and possibly his Sunday blessing, may be altered or canceled. His next significant engagements include the Canonization of Carlo Acutis in April and a visit to Turkey for the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea.

Perspectives

Compare opinions on this story from liberal (Left), conservative (Right) or center-leaning news organizations.

Pope Francis is recovering from pneumonia, having shown steady improvement, but his prognosis remains cautious as he continues to receive treatment in hospital.
Despite some cancellations of public events, there is hope he may still attend significant upcoming engagements if his health allows.
Public concern and prayers for his recovery reflect the deep connection many feel towards the pontiff, as he is viewed as a humble figure and a representative of faith.

FAQs

A list of follow-up questions readers often ask about this story.

History

A summary of how this story has evolved over the last 24 hours.