Pope Francis hospitalised in Rome over ‘respiratory infection’, Vatican says

Pope Francis has been admitted to Rome hospital after he complained about difficulty in breathing, said the Vatican. According to Vatican News, the pope went to Rome’s Gemelli hospital for some scheduled check-ups which revealed that he has a “respiratory infection” that required a couple of days of treatment.

Initially, the Vatican had said that his visit to the hospital was in line with a previously scheduled check-up. In a following statement, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni said that the hospital tests revealed that Pope Francis is presently suffering from a respiratory infection. However, it is to note that Covid-19 infection has been ruled out. Bruni also stated that the pope would stay in the hospital for the next few days.

Pope Francis has a condition which infects or inflames the colon, named diverticulitis. He had undergone surgery in 2021 to remove a section of the colon. Even earlier this year, he had said that the condition returned. However, he also said that he was not concerned.


It is pertinent to mention that Pope Francis is expected to celebrate Pal Sunday Mass this weekend, mark the beginning of several ceremonies, Good Friday and culminating with Easter Sunday on April 9. On Wednesday, March 29 (local time), before he was taken to the hospital, the pope had presided over the Wednesday General Audience in St Peter's Square, in the morning, according to tradition. According to Vatican News, pope was touched by several messages received and expressed his gratitude for the prayers made for him.

FAQs:

How old is Pope Francis?
86 years

Who is Pope Francis?
Pope Francis is the head of the Catholic Church.