Pope Francis led recitation of the midday Angelus prayer from his residence at the Casa Santa Marta. (Photo by Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images)
(EPICSTORIAN) — Pope Francis remains in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where medical teams are treating a polymicrobial infection affecting his respiratory system.
The Vatican confirmed on Monday that the 88-year-old pontiff requires ongoing medical supervision due to a ‘complex clinical situation’, BBC learned.
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni provided an update, stating that all tests conducted so far indicate a condition requiring continued hospitalization. Medical teams have adjusted his treatment plan to address the evolving nature of his illness.
“All tests carried out to date are indicative of a complex clinical picture that will require appropriate hospitalization,” Bruni said.
Health Concerns and Hospitalization
Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital last Friday after experiencing prolonged bronchitis symptoms. In the days leading up to his hospitalization, he had already begun reducing public speaking duties, delegating officials to read speeches on his behalf.
Doctors initially described his condition as stable over the weekend, but the latest assessment highlights increasing medical challenges. Though under treatment, Vatican officials report that he remains in good spirits.
Missed Engagements and Canceled Events
Scheduled public appearances have been disrupted due to his hospitalization. The weekly General Audience, held every Wednesday, has been canceled, along with his customary Sunday Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square.
A special mass for artists, planned as part of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year, also proceeded without him. Earlier in the week, difficulties with illness led him to request assistance reading speeches.
Efforts to recover within his Vatican residence before his hospital admission proved insufficient, leading to medical intervention.
History of Health Challenges
Pope Francis has faced recurring health issues throughout his life. A similar hospitalization in March 2023 required three nights in the same medical facility for bronchitis treatment. That same year, illness forced him to cancel a planned trip to the United Arab Emirates for the COP28 climate summit.
Medical complications date back decades. At 21 years old, he underwent lung surgery, losing part of one lung due to a severe infection. More recently, limited mobility has required him to rely on a wheelchair during many public appearances.
Ongoing Concerns Over Pope Francis’ Health
The pontiff, now in his 12th year as leader of the Catholic Church, continues to receive close medical attention. His condition remains under evaluation, and further updates from the Vatican are expected.
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Faithful followers and global leaders await news on his recovery as the Vatican monitors the situation closely.
