Pope Francis Hospitalized for Bronchitis—Vatican Confirms Stable Condition
Pontiff admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for respiratory treatment as Vatican cancels upcoming engagements
- Pope Francis, 88, is receiving hospital treatment for a worsening case of bronchitis
- All Vatican engagements for the next three days have been suspended
- The Vatican reports that the pope is in good spirits and under medical supervision
Pope Francis, 88, was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Friday for medical tests and treatment following a worsening case of bronchitis, the Vatican announced.
“The Holy Father, due to the recent exacerbation of bronchitis, has undergone specialized examinations and started hospital drug therapy,” read a statement from the Holy See Press Office. Initial tests confirmed a respiratory tract infection, though his overall clinical condition remains stable, with only mild fever.
Despite his illness, the pope remains in good spirits. Matteo Bruni, director of the Holy See Press Office, reported that Francis has been reading newspapers and maintaining his usual serene demeanor.
The pope was hospitalized on the morning of Feb. 14 after holding several meetings, including one with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico. His hospitalization has led to the cancellation of all appointments for the next three days, including a planned jubilee audience at the Vatican on Feb. 15 and a meeting with artists at Cinecittà film studios on Feb. 17. Additionally, Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça will now preside over a scheduled Mass in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday in the pope’s absence.
Francis has been battling bronchitis for over a week, with the Vatican previously adjusting his schedule to allow for rest. Despite his condition, he participated in a jubilee Mass for police and armed forces on Feb. 9 and his weekly general audience on Feb. 14.
This is not the first time the pope has faced respiratory issues—he was hospitalized for a respiratory infection in March 2023 and had to cancel a trip to Dubai in November due to acute bronchitis. His ongoing health challenges, including knee problems requiring a wheelchair, have led to noticeable breathlessness in recent appearances, with aides increasingly reading his prepared remarks.
While under medical care, Vatican officials assure that Pope Francis is in stable condition and receiving the necessary treatment.
