Pope Francis remains stable in hospital and a recent chest scan confirmed improvements in his condition, the Vatican said on Wednesday, in a further sign of progress as the 88-year-old pontiff battles double pneumonia.

VATICAN CITY - Pope Francis is showing a "good response" to his hospital treatment for double pneumonia and his overall condition is gradually improving, the Vatican said on Saturday. Francis, 88, has been in Rome's Gemelli hospital for more than three weeks with a severe respiratory infection that has required continuously evolving treatment.

Pope Francis had a quiet night, the Vatican said Wednesday, amid hopes the 88-year-old might be able to return home soon, after almost four weeks in hospital with pneumonia. The head of the Catholic Church has been in Rome’s Gemelli hospital since February 14 with pneumonia in both lungs,