Vatican issues health update on Pope Francis as he enters fourth week in hospital

The leader of the Catholic Church has not been seen in public since 14 February.

Pope Francis has been showing a "good response" to his treatment for double pneumonia, according to The Vatican.

The 88-year-old has been in Gemelli hospital in Rome for over three weeks due to bronchitis which then developed into double pneumonia.

His latest health update from The Vatican said: "The clinical condition of the Holy Father in recent days has remained stable and, consequently, indicates a good response to the treatment."

It added that his blood tests have remained stable and he does not have a fever.

Doctors have seen "a gradual, slight improvement", however, they have kept a guarded prognosis, The Vatican said.

The statement added: "In order to record these initial improvements in the coming days as well, his doctors have prudently maintained the prognosis as guarded.

"The clinical condition of the Holy Father in recent days has remained stable and, consequently, indicates a good response to the treatment."

He continues to receive oxygen to help with his breathing.

The Vatican press office added: "As planned, the Pope, after receiving high-flow oxygenation with nasal cannulas during the day, will switch to non-invasive mechanical ventilation during the night."

These past few weeks have been the longest stint that the Pope has gone without being seen in public since he was elected 12 years ago.

The Pope's doctors have not said how long the 88-year-old will have to remain in hospital.

Sunday will be the fourth weekly prayer that he will miss with pilgrims in a row.

The beginning of Lent was observed without him during the week, as Cardinal Angelo De Donatis led proceedings on Ash Wednesday.