Pope Francis hospitalized with complex respiratory infection — Vatican cancels upcoming events
Pope Francis, 88, is hospitalized with a complex respiratory infection, leading the Vatican to cancel upcoming Holy Year events as he receives targeted treatment.
Pope Francis, aged 88, has been admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital due to a complex respiratory infection involving multiple pathogens. The Vatican has announced the cancellation of his scheduled engagements, including the upcoming Holy Year events, as he undergoes targeted treatment.
The pontiff was hospitalized after a week-long struggle with bronchitis that worsened, leading to the diagnosis of a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection. This condition indicates the presence of multiple microorganisms in the respiratory system, necessitating a comprehensive treatment approach. Despite his hospitalization, the Vatican reports that Pope Francis remains in stable condition without fever, engaging in routine activities such as reading and prayer.
Pope will remain hospitalized as doctors treat a complex respiratory tract infection, Vatican says. Photo: Marietta Times.
Vatican’s quick actions
In light of his health status, the Vatican has canceled all papal audiences and events through the upcoming weekend. This includes the Holy Year celebrations, which are significant events in the Catholic Church, drawing millions of pilgrims to Rome. The Vatican has not provided a specific timeline for the Pope's recovery, stating that his hospital stay will continue as long as necessary to address his complex clinical condition.
Concerns about the pope's health had grown over the past week, as his voice repeatedly faltered during public appearances and he rarely left his Vatican residence. Doctors had been recommending that he go to hospital for treatment for some time, according to media reports. Initially, it was reported from Francis' entourage that his stay could last until the middle of next week. Doctors have ordered "absolute rest," the Vatican said.
Vatican cancels weekend events amid ongoing hospitalisation. Photo: The Independent.
This is not the first time for Pope Francis
Pope Francis has a history of health challenges, including the removal of part of his lung in his youth and previous hospitalizations for respiratory issues. His current condition has raised concerns, but medical professionals express cautious optimism about his recovery, emphasizing the importance of targeted treatment and rest.
"All tests carried out to date are indicative of a complex clinical picture that will require appropriate hospitalisation," the Vatican said in a statement posted on its Vatican News website. As the Pope continues his recovery, the global Catholic community remains in prayer and solidarity, hoping for his swift return to health and resumption of his pastoral duties. At 88, Francis is the second-oldest pope in history. He has been in office since March 2013, succeeding Benedict XVI.