Pope Francis is currently recuperating after being admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital due to bronchitis. According to the Vatican, the 88-year-old pontiff enjoyed a “peaceful night” and started his Saturday by having breakfast and reading newspapers.
Matteo Bruni, the director of the Holy See Press Office, communicated to journalists that medical assessments and treatments are ongoing. The pope was hospitalized following a series of meetings, including one with Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico, where initial examinations indicated a respiratory tract infection accompanied by a mild fever.
As a precaution, the Vatican has suspended all of Pope Francis’s appointments through at least February 17, including a significant jubilee audience scheduled for Saturday and a meeting with artists at the historic Cinecittà film studios on Monday.
A medical update is anticipated later today as the Vatican continues to provide information on the pope’s recovery.
This situation highlights both the fragility of health at an advanced age and the importance of rest and treatment. The Vatican’s prompt action to cancel engagements demonstrates a commitment to the Pope’s well-being, ensuring he can focus on his recovery.
In summary, while Pope Francis faces health challenges, he is currently stable, allowing for hope of a swift recovery.