The Vatican says on Monday that Pope Francis is receiving treatment for a complicated medical condition and will stay in the hospital for as long as is required.
The 88-year-old pope was brought to Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Friday for bronchitis treatment and tests. Pope Francis has had to have his medication modified due to a polymicrobial infection that is damaging his respiratory tract, according to an update from Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni.
The Pope had been suffering from bronchitis for a few days prior to his hospitalization, so he had appointed officials to read his prepared addresses at public gatherings. Bruni claimed the pope is still in a good mood despite his illness.
“All tests carried out to date are indicative of a complex clinical picture that will require appropriate hospitalization,” the Vatican statement read.
As a result of his health issues, the Pope’s weekly general audience, typically held on Wednesdays, has been canceled for this week.
The Vatican previously stated that the pontiff was in stable condition and had been advised to rest completely to aid his recovery.
Due to his illness, Pope Francis was unable to deliver his regular Sunday prayer in St. Peter’s Square or lead a special Mass for artists as part of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year celebrations.
The Argentine pontiff, who has led the Roman Catholic Church for nearly 12 years, has faced several health challenges over the years. In March 2023, he spent three nights at Gemelli Hospital for bronchitis treatment.
In December of the same year, he canceled a planned visit to the United Arab Emirates for the COP28 climate summit due to illness. Pope Francis has a history of respiratory issues, having had part of one of his lungs removed at the age of 21.
