Pope Francis Hospitalized: Vatican Reveals 'Complex Clinical Situation

 

Pope Francis

Pope Francis is undergoing treatment for a “complex clinical situation” and will remain hospitalized for as long as necessary, according to an update from the Vatican.

The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Friday after experiencing bronchitis symptoms for several days. Doctors have since diagnosed him with a polymicrobial infection affecting his respiratory tract, prompting adjustments to his treatment.

Despite his hospitalization, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni assured reporters on Monday that Pope Francis remains in good spirits. However, medical evaluations indicate a complex condition requiring continued hospitalization.

"All tests carried out to date are indicative of a complex clinical picture that will require appropriate hospitalization," the Vatican statement confirmed.

As a result, the Pope’s weekly general audience, scheduled for Wednesday, has been canceled while he focuses on recovery.

The Pope had already been delegating his speeches at recent events due to illness. Over the weekend, the Vatican stated that he was in stable condition but required complete rest to aid his recovery.

Due to his health struggles, Pope Francis:

• Missed his regular Sunday prayer in St. Peter’s Square
• Was unable to lead a special mass for artists ahead of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year
• Asked a priest to read part of his speech at an event last Wednesday
• Had to cancel meetings and rest at his Vatican residence last week

This hospitalization marks the second time in recent years that Pope Francis has been treated at Gemelli Hospital. In March 2023, he spent three nights at the facility for bronchitis treatment. Later in December 2023, he was forced to cancel his trip to the UAE for the COP28 climate summit due to another illness.

Pope Francis has faced multiple health challenges throughout his life. At just 21 years old, he underwent surgery to remove part of one of his lungs due to a severe infection. Despite these challenges, he has continued to lead the Catholic Church with resilience and dedication.