Suspending use of the mask means Francis’ lungs are working harder and better on their own. The Vatican is also again reducing its medical updates as Francis slowly continues his recovery, with the next one not expected before Monday.

Pope Francis has suspended the use of an oxygen mask, the Vatican said on Wednesday, adding that the 88-year-old's clinical condition was 'improving' after more than one month in the hospital.

The Vatican has released a game-changing medical report for Pope Francis, who has been getting treatment for bilateral pneumonia at Rome's Gemelli Hospital.