Pope Francis Hospitalized for Respiratory Infection, Vatican Confirms/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Pope Francis, 88, has been hospitalized in Rome’s Gemelli hospital due to a worsening respiratory infection. The Vatican says he is in fair condition, receiving drug therapy, and remains serene and in good spirits. His illness has forced him to cancel all public events through Monday, including a planned Mass and a trip to Rome’s Cinecittà film studios.
Pope Francis Hospitalized for Respiratory Infection: Quick Looks
- Current Condition: Pope Francis hospitalized with a respiratory infection, running a mild fever
- Vatican Statement: Francis is receiving drug therapy and is in fair condition
- Event Cancellations: All scheduled appearances, including a Mass, are canceled through Monday
- Recent Health Struggles: The pope has been battling bronchitis since February 6
- Hospital History: Previous treatments at Gemelli Hospital include pneumonia and abdominal surgery
- Public Concerns: Vatican observers remain hopeful about his recovery
Pope Francis Hospitalized for Worsening Respiratory Infection
Pope Francis Admitted to Gemelli Hospital After Health Decline
Pope Francis, 88, has been hospitalized in Rome after his respiratory infection worsened, marking another significant health setback for the pontiff. The Vatican confirmed that preliminary tests showed a respiratory tract infection, accompanied by a mild fever, and that he is in fair condition while receiving drug therapy at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
Despite the hospitalization, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni assured the public that Francis is in good spirits, remains serene, and even read newspapers upon arrival at the hospital.
Recent Health Struggles Leading to Hospitalization
Francis had been battling bronchitis since February 6, but continued holding daily audiences in his Vatican residence and presiding over large public gatherings, including an outdoor Mass on Sunday.
However, concerns over his breathing difficulties became apparent when he began handing off speeches to aides at recent events. On Friday morning, just before his hospitalization, Francis appeared bloated and pale, leading to speculation that medications were causing fluid retention.
Vatican Cancels All Papal Events Through Monday
The Vatican has canceled all of Pope Francis’ scheduled events through Monday, including:
- A planned audience with artists attending the Jubilee celebrations on Saturday
- A public Mass on Sunday, which will now be presided over by a Vatican cardinal
- A trip to Rome’s famous Cinecittà film studios on Monday
The cancellations come as the pope undergoes treatment and further medical evaluation at Gemelli.
Francis’ Ongoing Health Challenges
Pope Francis has long battled respiratory issues, stemming from a lung infection in his youth, which resulted in the removal of part of his right lung.
In recent years, he has faced multiple hospitalizations, including:
- March 2023: Rushed to Gemelli Hospital with acute pneumonia, requiring intravenous antibiotics.
- June 2023: Underwent abdominal surgery to remove scar tissue and repair a hernia.
- July 2021: Spent 10 days hospitalized following intestinal surgery.
During a previous health scare, Francis revealed that a nun nurse saved his life by doubling his antibiotic dose when he was younger, preventing further lung damage.
Public Reaction and Prayers for Pope’s Recovery
As news of his hospitalization spread, visitors outside Gemelli Hospital gathered near the statue of St. John Paul II, lighting candles and offering prayers.
Nino Davi, a patient receiving treatment at Gemelli, expressed his concern and support for the pope:
“I wish with all my heart that he will get better because these awful illnesses, you don’t wish them on anyone.”
What’s Next for Pope Francis?
While the Vatican has not confirmed how long Francis will remain hospitalized, previous stays at Gemelli have lasted between three and ten days.
His recent frailty and increasing reliance on a wheelchair and cane have raised concerns about his long-term ability to fulfill papal duties. However, Francis has repeatedly dismissed retirement speculation, stating that he plans to serve as long as his health allows.
For now, the world watches and prays as Pope Francis undergoes treatment, hoping for a swift recovery.
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