The Vatican has published a photo of the Pope for the first time after hospitalization

The Vatican has released a photo of Pope Francis during morning prayers. The corresponding picture appeared on March 16 on the Vatican News portal with reference to the press service of the Holy See.

It shows the pontiff sitting in a wheelchair and looking at the crucifix on the altar of the chapel. According to the Holy See, Francis goes there to pray every day after his condition improves.

It is specified that this is the first image of the pontiff, published after his hospitalization. The Vatican noted that the pope's condition remains stable, but treatment, including respiratory and physical therapy, continues.

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On March 10, it became known that the pontiff had overcome a critical phase, and a steady improvement in his condition was recorded. At the same time, the Holy See stressed that the pope needs to continue his treatment in a hospital for the next few days.

The Holy See's press service announced the pope's hospitalization on February 14. On February 18, he was diagnosed with the onset of bilateral pneumonia, and on February 22, the pope needed a blood transfusion. On March 3, it was reported that Francis suffered two attacks of acute respiratory failure. On March 8, the Vatican announced that the pontiff's condition had begun to improve.