Pope Francis hospitalized for ‘complex clinical situation,’ Vatican confirms
According to a statement from the Vatican, Pope Francis is being treated for a 'complex clinical situation' and will remain in the hospital as long as needed, a Kazinform News Agency correspondent reports.
The 88-year-old was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday for tests and treatment for bronchitis.
On Monday, the Vatican said he has a “polymicrobial infection” in his respiratory tract, requiring a change in treatment. Later, they confirmed he was “proceeding with the prescribed treatment” in stable condition, without a fever. He also did some reading and work while in the hospital.
“Pope Francis is touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he has been receiving in recent hours,” the statement said.
“He especially wants to extend his thanks to those who are hospitalised at this time, for the affection and love they have expressed through drawings and messages of good wishes; he prays for them and asks that they pray for him.”
Before his hospital stay, the Pope had bronchitis symptoms for several days and had others read his speeches at events.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said Monday that the Pope was in good spirits. A short statement on his condition said: “All tests carried out to date are indicative of a complex clinical picture that will require appropriate hospitalisation.”
The Pope’s weekly general audience on Wednesday has been canceled.
Over the weekend, the Vatican said he was stable and needed “complete rest” to recover.
On Friday and Saturday, he held a video call with the Holy Family Parish in Gaza, led by Father Gabriel Romanelli.
“We heard his voice. It is true, he is more tired. He himself said, 'I have to take care of myself.' But you could hear the clear voice, he listened to us well,” Fr Romanelli told Vatican News.
On Sunday, the Pope sent a text message to the parish, thanking them for their well wishes.
He was unable to deliver his weekly prayer in St Peter’s Square or lead a special mass for artists. Last week, he also held meetings at his Vatican residence while trying to recover.
Pope Francis has been hospitalized several times during his 12 years as leader of the Catholic Church and has had various health issues. At 21, he had part of a lung removed.
In March 2023, he spent three nights in the hospital with bronchitis, and in June, he had surgery for an abdominal hernia. Another illness forced him to cancel his trip to the UAE for the COP28 summit.
Earlier, it was reported that the Vatican confirmed Pope Francis had been hospitalized for bronchitis treatment.
