ROME & LONDON – Pope Francis has been admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome on Friday for diagnostic tests and to continue treatment for ongoing bronchitis, the Vatican announced.
“This morning, at the end of the audiences, Pope Francis will be admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic for some necessary diagnostic tests and to continue in a hospital setting [his] treatment for bronchitis that is still ongoing,” the Vatican said in a statement.
Recent Health Setbacks
The 88-year-old pontiff has faced multiple health challenges in recent months.
- January Incident: Pope Francis fell and injured his arm at his residence, prompting Vatican doctors to immobilize his right forearm as a precautionary measure.
- Walking Stick Malfunction: Earlier this month, the pope tripped while entering the Vatican auditorium for an audience after the handle of his walking stick broke.
- Bronchitis Diagnosis: Last Thursday, Pope Francis was diagnosed with bronchitis, which has impacted his ability to speak during public readings.
During his weekly general audience on Wednesday, the pope paused mid-reading, telling the crowd:
“Me, with my bronchitis, I cannot (read) still. I hope that next time I can.”
An aide stepped in to finish the reading on his behalf.
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Upcoming Schedule & Hospital Stay
Pope Francis’s hospitalization comes just days before a packed schedule of events to mark the Catholic Church’s jubilee year.
While his medical team has not provided details on how long he will remain hospitalized, the Vatican is expected to release further updates as his treatment progresses.
