Pope Francis Admitted to Hospital for Bronchitis Treatment

Pope Francis, 88, is set to be treated for bronchitis in Rome, as recent episodes have prompted delegation of speeches to aides and reduced public engagements.

Pope Francis will be admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome for treatment and necessary diagnostic tests related to his ongoing struggles with bronchitis, the Vatican disclosed. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has battled bronchitis in the past, will check into the hospital after his morning audiences on Friday, according to a brief statement issued by Vatican officials.

The Pope has shown symptoms of bronchitis for several days, leading him to delegate parts of his speeches to clergy members at public events. “This morning, after his audiences, Pope Francis will be admitted for necessary diagnostic tests and to continue treatment for his ongoing bronchitis,” the statement clarified.

During a public address on Wednesday, the Pope requested a priest to read a portion of his speech due to his illness. "Let me ask the priest to continue to read, because I cannot yet, with my bronchitis. I hope that next time I can," he stated, demonstrating the impact of his health on his public duties. He has similarly asked aides to read on his behalf during a mass last Sunday and the general audience on Wednesday.

Last week, the Pope attempted to curtail his schedule at the Vatican by holding meetings at his residence to rest and recover. This will not be the first time the Pope has been hospitalized for bronchitis; he underwent treatment at the same hospital in March 2023, where he spent three nights. In December of the same year, he had to cancel a planned trip to the United Arab Emirates for the COP28 climate summit, citing health concerns.

Pope Francis, the first Argentine pontiff and leader of the Roman Catholic Church for nearly 12 years, has faced health challenges throughout his life, including undergoing surgery to remove part of a lung at age 21. The faithful and the global community will undoubtedly be watching closely as he embarks on this latest medical journey.