Pope Francis is no longer in immediate danger and is responding well to treatment, marking progress in his recovery from double pneumonia, the Vatican announced on Tuesday. 

Francis, who had part of his lung removed in his youth, has been receiving care in a special papal suite at Rome's Gemelli hospital since February 14. Despite experiencing several respiratory crises, his condition has been described as "stable" for several days. 

In its latest update, the Vatican stated that doctors had lifted the previous "guarded" prognosis, indicating that his condition had stabilized.

"The improvements recorded in previous days have further consolidated, as confirmed by both blood tests and clinical assessments, as well as a good response to his drug treatments," it said.

Despite this progress, the Vatican noted that doctors still expect Francis "to continue medical drug treatment in a hospital setting for further days." No specific date was provided for his discharge.

He also alternates between using an oxygen mask at night and a cannula, which delivers high-flow oxygen during the day, to facilitate his breathing. 

On March 4, the Pope suffered two episodes of "acute respiratory failure" due to a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and a consequent bronchospasm. 

"Two bronchoscopies were therefore performed, requiring aspiration of abundant secretions," the Vatican said. "In the afternoon, non-invasive mechanical ventilation was resumed."

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