Pope Francis continues to show signs of improvement as he battles a severe lung infection, but his prognosis remains uncertain. Doctors report stabilisation, though he is still under close observation.

Pope Francis has shown further slight improvement as he battles double pneumonia, but doctors said Wednesday his prognosis is still guarded.

ROME — Pope Francis was a frequent visitor to Rome long before he became pope, and over time found his favorite shops and artisans who are now pulling for him as he battles double pneumonia . “The pope is by now a friend, a beloved person for me, not a customer,” said Francis’ optician, Alessandro Spiezia. “I am praying for his recovery.”