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Pope Francis Admitted to Hospital Due to Respiratory Infection

ROME — Pope Francis has been advised to take “absolute rest” as part of his treatment for a respiratory tract infection, according to a statement from the Vatican. The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome on Saturday after a weeklong struggle with bronchitis that had worsened.

As a precautionary measure following medical advice, Pope Francis will not deliver his customary Sunday noon blessing, which he could have conducted from his hospital room if his condition permitted.

During his initial night in the hospital, the pope reportedly slept well and maintained a normal breakfast routine. He engaged in reading and prayer throughout Saturday, and the Vatican confirmed that he received the Eucharist.

Health Concerns for the Argentine Pope

This hospitalization marks the fourth instance since his papal election in 2013 where Pope Francis has required medical attention, raising ongoing concerns regarding his health. The latest admission comes in the wake of continuous bouts with bronchitis, which he was diagnosed with earlier this month.

Initial examinations identified a respiratory infection, which was subsequently confirmed in a later bulletin indicating no fever and some signs of improvement. As a result, all of his scheduled audiences have been postponed until at least Monday.

A Tough Winter for the Pope

Pope Francis has a history of respiratory issues that tend to flare up during the winter months. Despite being diagnosed with bronchitis on February 6, he continued to hold daily audiences from his residence. However, he has increasingly relied on aides to read his speeches aloud, citing difficulty in breathing.

In a statement regarding his treatment, the Vatican emphasized that the medical team has mandated significant rest to aid in his recovery process.

Medical History and Previous Surgeries

Francis has had a complicated medical history, having undergone surgery to remove part of one lung in his youth and additional surgeries in recent years. In 2021, he had a section of his large intestine removed due to colonic narrowing, and in 2023, he underwent further abdominal surgery to address intestinal scar tissue and repair a hernia. He has also faced mobility challenges, relying on a wheelchair, walker, or cane for assistance and suffering falls that have caused injuries.

The Gemelli hospital, where the pope is being treated, is equipped with a private suite tailored for papal care, located on the tenth floor. Notably, during a previous hospitalization in 2023, Pope Francis shared that he had been diagnosed with “an acute and strong pneumonia” affecting the lower part of his lungs.

Bronchitis, if not properly managed, can escalate to pneumonia, which poses more severe risks as it involves infection of the lung’s air sacs. Physicians often detect pneumonia through specific sounds during breathing examinations; however, conclusive diagnosis typically requires imaging studies or blood oxygen level assessments.

Treatment for such respiratory issues can vary significantly based on severity but generally may include oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, and addressing the underlying causes of the infection.

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