The Vatican announces that Pope Francis is breathing without assistance as his health gets better

ROME — The Vatican announced on Wednesday that Pope Francis is showing signs of improvement in his health as he continues to recover from double pneumonia. According to the Vatican, the Pope no longer requires the use of a mechanical ventilation mask to assist with his breathing, indicating a positive development in his condition.

In addition, the 88-year-old pontiff is gradually reducing his need for high-flow supplemental oxygen during the day. While the pneumonia infection has not been fully eradicated, it is said to be under control, as reported by the Holy See press office in a medical bulletin.

On the same day, Pope Francis participated in the celebration of Mass, an important event for the Catholic Church and also marking the 12th anniversary of his papal inauguration.

Francis has been at Rome’s Gemelli hospital since Feb. 14 for a complex lung infection that turned into pneumonia in both lungs. He has been receiving respiratory and physical therapy to help strengthen his lungs.

For two nights in a row, he hasn’t needed to use the noninvasive mechanical ventilation mask, which pumps oxygen into his lungs, and doctors said its use had been “suspended.” Francis was put on the ventilation mask after he suffered a spate of respiratory crises in late February and early March during which he was unable to expel the mucus and fluid that had accumulated in his lungs.

Suspending use of the mask means Francis’ lungs are working harder and better on their own.

The Vatican is also again reducing its medical updates as Francis slowly continues his recovery, with the next one not expected before Monday.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella commemorated the 12th anniversary of Francis’ installation as pope by sending him a letter praising his initiatives as pope. Mattarella offered best wishes for the continuation of his pontificate and “all the more heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery.”