The Holy See Press Office has provided an update on Pope Francis’ health, confirming that he is suffering from a polymicrobial infection in his respiratory tract. This condition has required adjustments to his treatment and necessitates hospitalization for proper monitoring. “Tests conducted in recent days and today have revealed a complex clinical picture that requires continued hospitalization,” the official statement reads.
The Pontiff was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Polyclinic on Friday, February 14, and has since suspended all his usual commitments. In a written message for the Angelus prayer, he explained: “I would have liked to be with you, but as you know, I am still at the Gemelli Polyclinic because I need treatment for my bronchitis.”
Canceled Engagements and Uncertain Appearances
So far, the Vatican has only confirmed the cancellation of appointments through Monday. One affected event was Francis’ planned visit to Cinecittà studios in Rome, where he was set to meet with artists as part of the Catholic Church’s Holy Year celebrations.
While his private audiences are usually scheduled with little advance notice, his next public appearance is the general audience on Wednesday. He is also scheduled to preside over the ordination of deacons on Sunday, as part of a Holy Year weekend dedicated to their ministry. However, his participation in these events remains uncertain.
Last Sunday, a cardinal replaced him at the Jubilee Mass dedicated to artists, signaling that his recovery may take longer.
A Pope with Fragile Health but a Demanding Schedule
Since assuming leadership of the Catholic Church in 2013, Francis has faced several health challenges. He has undergone colon and hernia surgeries and relies on a wheelchair due to a knee injury. Despite these issues, he maintains a demanding schedule that is expected to intensify with Easter approaching in April.
Before his hospitalization on Friday, the Pope—who had part of a lung removed in his youth—had already shown signs of fatigue, frequently relying on his aides to read his speeches.
This is not the first time Francis has dealt with respiratory complications. In March 2023, he was also hospitalized for bronchitis.
The situation is still developing.
(With information from AP, EP, and AFP)
