Pope Francis is still improving and his prognosis is no longer considered uncertain, the Vatican has said.
The 88-year-old has been hospitalised since 14 February after being diagnosed with double pneumonia.
"The clinical conditions of the Holy Father continue to be stable," the Vatican said in a statement this evening.
"The improvements recorded in the previous days have been further consolidated, as confirmed by blood tests and clinical objectivity and the good response to pharmacological therapy."
For this reason, they said, doctors had decided to change the prognosis, which had for some time been "reserved" - meaning the outcome was uncertain.
"However, in view of the complexity of the clinical picture and the (Pope's) significant infectious picture presented at his hospitalisation, it will be necessary to continue, for further days, the pharmacological medical therapy in a hospital environment," the statement said.
Francis was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital with bronchitis, which later turned into pneumonia in both lungs.
He suffered several respiratory crisis but has been gradually improving in recent days.
The Argentine pontiff missed delivering the traditional Angelus prayer in person following mass at St Peter's Square, but issued a written one, thanking his doctors and others who help those in need.
"I too experience the thoughtfulness of service and the tenderness of care, in particular from the doctors and healthcare workers, whom I thank from the bottom of my heart," he said.
The Vatican has issued nearly daily medical bulletins about the state of his health, which has experienced incremental improvements marked by occasional setbacks.
It said yesterday that the Pope's condition was "stable", with "slight improvements ... in a complex overall picture".
Although the Pope does not have a fever, his doctors want to see more positive results in days ahead before offering a prognosis.
People continue to gather at the hospital to pray for Pope Francis or leave flowers, candles and cards.
