Pope Francis is set to be released from Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome on Sunday after a 38-day hospitalization for severe pneumonia affecting both lungs.

Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the medical director of the hospital, shared this update during a press briefing on Saturday.

The pope was first admitted on February 14 with bronchitis, which subsequently escalated into a more serious pneumonia case.

Hospital officials report that Francis has shown consistent improvement in recent weeks, and his condition is currently stable.

As he prepares to return to the Vatican, doctors have recommended a minimum of two months for rest and rehabilitation.

He will continue with physical and respiratory therapy and is still undergoing medication.

He no longer needs mechanical ventilation at night and is progressively decreasing his dependence on high-flow nasal oxygen during the day.

On Sunday, Francis is anticipated to make a public appearance from a hospital window, marking his first sighting in over five weeks.

The weekly Angelus prayer will be aired, as in previous weeks, though it will not be read by the pope himself.

The Vatican announced on Friday that his respiratory and motor functions are steadily improving.

A formal medical update is expected on Monday.