Pope Francis, 88, has been hospitalized in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for treatment of bronchitis, the Vatican confirmed on Friday.
Current Condition:
🩺 Diagnosed with a respiratory tract infection
🌡️ Experiencing a slight fever
📰 Still reading newspapers, described as “serene and in good spirits”
Recent Health Issues:
- Suffering from bronchitis since early February
- Struggling with breathing difficulties in meetings
- Two recent falls at his Vatican residence (December & January)
- Multiple lung infections due to previous pleurisy surgery
Impact on Papal Schedule:
❌ Several public events canceled over the next three days
🤝 Held meetings before hospitalization, including with CNN CEO Mark Thompson & Slovak PM Robert Fico
Past Health Concerns:
- June 2023: Underwent surgery for abdominal hernia
- December 2023: Skipped reading statements due to respiratory issues
- September 2024: Completed 12-day trip across Southeast Asia & Oceania
Vatican’s Assurance:
🔹 The Pope’s condition is stable
🔹 He is receiving specialist care and medication