Pope Francis was admitted to Rome's Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic on Friday due to bronchitis, as reported by the Vatican City. The Holy See Press Office announced the cancellation of scheduled events for the coming days due to his hospitalization.
The 88-year-old Argentine Pontiff was diagnosed with bronchitis last Thursday. Despite this, he continued with his usual schedule at Casa Santa Marta until Friday morning, meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and CNN's Director Mark Thompson.
Cancellation of Official Engagements
Given the worsening of the Pope's bronchitis, the Vatican confirmed the suspension of several planned activities for the weekend. Among the canceled events are the Jubilee Audience on Saturday, February 15, the Holy Mass on Sunday, February 16, and a meeting with artists scheduled for Monday, February 17 in Cinecittà.
"The Holy Mass on the occasion of the Jubilee of Artists and the World of Culture, on Sunday, February 16, will be presided over by His Eminence Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education," detailed the Press Office.
The Pope's health has been affected by bronchitis since late January, when he began experiencing respiratory symptoms. Initially, the condition was thought to be temporary, but its progression has necessitated more intensive medical care.
Pontiff's Medical History
Francis has faced various health challenges in recent years. In June 2023, he underwent surgery to remove intestinal scar tissue and repair an abdominal wall hernia. Earlier, in March of the same year, he spent three days in the same hospital for intravenous antibiotics due to another respiratory infection.
Since his youth, when part of his lung was removed, the Pope has experienced recurring respiratory issues. Last year, during Holy Week, he was notably affected by a prolonged bout of bronchitis.
The Vatican has not provided additional details about the duration of his hospital stay or the current health status of the Holy Father. Nevertheless, the official communication from the Holy See has been more transparent compared to the 2023 incident—media sources note—when it was initially reported as scheduled medical tests, and subsequently, the Pontiff remained hospitalized for ten days in July 2021 following intestinal surgery.
For now, the Pope is expected to continue his treatment in the hospital, while the Vatican assesses his condition and the next steps to take.
Pope Francis's Health and Hospitalization
Why was Pope Francis admitted to the hospital?
Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital due to bronchitis, which required more intensive medical attention.
What events were canceled due to the Pope's hospitalization?
Several events were canceled, including the Jubilee Audience, the Holy Mass, and a meeting with artists in Cinecittà.
Has Pope Francis had previous health issues?
Yes, Pope Francis has had several health issues, including surgery for intestinal scar tissue and recurring respiratory problems since his youth.