ROME, Italy – Pope Francis has been admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for treatment and tests related to bronchitis, the Vatican announced on Friday.
The 88-year-old pontiff arrived at the hospital following his morning audiences, as he continues to battle respiratory issues that have affected him for several days.
A brief Vatican statement confirmed his hospitalization, stating that the Pope would undergo “necessary diagnostic tests and continue hospital treatment for his ongoing bronchitis.”
Francis has struggled with the illness in recent days, frequently delegating officials to read his prepared speeches at public events.
During a Wednesday address, he acknowledged his condition, telling the audience, “Let me ask the priest to continue to read, because I cannot yet, with my bronchitis. I hope that next time I can.”
This is not the first time the Pope has been hospitalized for bronchitis.
In March 2023, he spent three nights at the same hospital receiving treatment for the infection.
His health challenges have also forced him to adjust his schedule in the past—most notably in December, when he canceled his trip to the COP28 climate summit in the United Arab Emirates due to illness.
Despite his condition, Pope Francis has continued to fulfill some of his duties, holding meetings at his Vatican residence in an attempt to rest and recover.
The Argentine-born leader of the Roman Catholic Church, now in his 12th year as pope, has faced several health concerns over the years.
At age 21, he had part of one of his lungs removed, a procedure that has occasionally led to respiratory complications in later life.
