Vatican issues fresh update on Pope Francis as he nears two weeks in hospital

They have issued a statement

The 88-year-old continues to receive treatment at Rome's Gemelli Hospital following a bout of bronchitis and bilateral pneumonia, with the Vatican reporting signs of improvement in his condition.

According to the Holy See Press Office, Pope Francis had a restful night and spent the morning in recovery.

In a statement the Vatican said: "The Pope slept well during the night and is now resting."

On Wednesday evening, officials noted that the Pontiff’s health had improved over the past 24 hours.

They said: "The mild kidney insufficiency observed in recent days has subsided. A chest CT scan carried out [on Tuesday] night showed a normal progression of the lung inflammation. Blood tests conducted [on Wednesday] confirmed the improvement seen [Tuesday]."

Doctors are remaining cautious about his prognosis as Pope Francis remains on high-flow oxygen therapy, but has not experienced any asthma-like respiratory crises as of Wednesday evening.

He has continued to engage in his spiritual responsibilities while hospitalised.

On Tuesday, he received the Holy Eucharist and made a phone call to the pastor of Holy Family parish in Gaza, expressing his 'paternal closeness' to the people there.

At the weekend he thanked people for their support around the world saying: "I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy.

"I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick."