The Vatican has provided a significant health update regarding Pope Francis, stating that the 88-year-old pontiff is no longer in imminent danger following a struggle with pneumonia and bronchitis.

The Holy Father has been hospitalized at Gemelli Hospital since February 14, marking the longest hospitalization of his 12-year papacy.

Pope Francis, who suffers from a chronic lung disease and underwent part of his lung being removed in his youth, faced two respiratory crises last week, which posed setbacks to his recovery.

However, the Vatican has indicated that there have been improvements in his health, shifting the prognosis from guarded to more optimistic.

A statement released by the Vatican noted, "The improvements recorded in previous days have been further consolidated, as confirmed by both blood tests and clinical findings, as well as by the Pope’s good response to pharmacological therapy." Consequently, the immediate threat to his survival has been alleviated.

Despite this encouraging news, the Vatican cautioned that continued pharmacological treatment will be necessary for several more days due to the complexity of the Pope’s health situation and the severe infection present upon his admission to the hospital.

During his hospitalization, Pope Francis has been able to participate in spiritual exercises remotely and has prayed in the chapel of his private apartment.

Reports from doctors indicate that his condition remains stable, with no fever and satisfactory oxygen levels in his blood.

The pontiff addressed his followers through a pre-recorded message in Spanish, which elicited applause from crowds gathered to hear his words as he continues his recovery from double pneumonia.