Pope Francis, at the age of 88, has been hospitalized for bronchitis, which has cancelled several upcoming public events, including a mass at St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Vatican confirmed that the pontiff was admitted to the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli in Rome to undergo necessary diagnostic tests and continue treatment in a hospital setting.
The pontiff has been experiencing symptoms of bronchitis for over a week, and his condition necessitated medical attention. He struggled with speech and breathing during recent engagements. Consequently, his public audience was scheduled for Saturday, and a visit to Rome’s Cinecitta film studios on Monday was also cancelled.
Pope Francis has been hospitalized for "necessary tests" as bronchitis treatment continues. @LamaHasan reports. https://t.co/sNOSsXRWIL pic.twitter.com/ZwGehR0VJi
— Good Morning America (@GMA) February 14, 2025Pope Francis, who has led the Catholic Church since 2013, has a history of respiratory issues. He had part of one lung removed in his youth due to pleurisy and has had several bouts of influenza and other health problems in the past two years. Despite these challenges, he has maintained an active schedule, including international travel, with his most recent trip being a 12-day tour across Southeast Asia and Oceania—the longest of his papacy.
Read: Pope Francis Urges Courage and Hope on Christmas Eve, Opens 2025 Holy Year
His ongoing health issues have sometimes forced him to modify his public appearances, opting out of reading statements at events earlier this year and delegating these duties to aides. Moreover, the Pope has recently experienced falls, sustaining minor injuries.
BREAKING: Pope Francis has been admitted to hospital for bronchitis treatment.
Read more: https://t.co/d8pKPmQRdH
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— Sky News (@SkyNews) February 14, 2025Rome’s Gemelli hospital, which has a dedicated suite for popes, previously hosted Francis for nine days in June 2023 for abdominal hernia surgery. As the Pope receives treatment, his engagements are on hold, underscoring the seriousness of his current health concerns. The Vatican and followers worldwide remain attentive to his recovery, hoping for his swift return to full health and continued leadership.
