Pope Francis's health has shown signs of improvement as the Vatican announced on Wednesday that he has stopped using an oxygen mask. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been receiving treatment at Rome's Gemelli hospital since February 14 for pneumonia affecting both lungs, is reportedly making steady progress.

According to a medical bulletin issued by the Vatican, the Pope's clinical condition is improving. Consequently, non-invasive mechanical ventilation has been suspended, and the need for high-flow oxygen therapy has been reduced. The Vatican press office clarified that while the oxygen mask is no longer in use, there is a possibility it could be reintroduced if necessary. They also emphasized that Pope Francis's discharge from the hospital is not imminent, and his pneumonia is currently under control but not entirely eliminated.

Recent reports indicate that the Pope's breathing has improved over the past week, with him spending short periods breathing on his own. During the day, he has been using a cannula to deliver high-flow oxygen, but doctors are now reducing this. Until recently, Pope Francis had been wearing an oxygen mask, but the Vatican stated that he managed without one for the first time on Tuesday.

The Vatican's press office announced that the next medical bulletin would likely be issued on Monday, signaling the progress made by the Pope. Throughout most of his hospital stay, the Vatican had been providing daily updates on his health, especially during critical stages. Notably, Pope Francis had part of one lung removed when he was younger.

The Pope's illness and extended hospital stay have raised concerns about who will manage the religious events leading up to Easter. The Vatican's press office stated that no definitive decisions have been made regarding this matter.