Pope Francis Admitted to Rome Hospital for Bronchitis Treatment

Pope Francis, 88, has been admitted to Rome’s Policlinico Agostino Gemelli Hospital for diagnostic tests and continued treatment for bronchitis, the Vatican confirmed on February 14. The pontiff’s hospitalization follows reports that he was struggling to speak during his meetings earlier in the day, due to breathing difficulties related to his ongoing illness.

The Vatican issued a statement shortly before 11:00 a.m. confirming that Pope Francis, who had been suffering from bronchitis for over a week, was taken to the hospital after a morning of official audiences.

“This morning, at the end of his audiences, Pope Francis was admitted to the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli for some necessary diagnostic tests and to continue his treatment for bronchitis, which is still ongoing, in a hospital environment,” his office said.

The Pope had met with a number of guests, including the Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico, and CNN CEO Mark Thompson. Despite his condition, Francis remained mentally alert but was reportedly unable to speak for extended periods.

This latest hospitalization marks another chapter in the pontiff’s ongoing health challenges. He has previously battled respiratory infections and knee problems in recent years. In March 2023, Pope Francis was hospitalized for a respiratory infection and underwent surgery to address a hernia. He was also forced to cancel a trip to Dubai in November 2023 due to acute bronchitis.

In recent days, Francis has been seen using a wheelchair and opting to have his speeches read by aides, as he has struggled with breathlessness. His medical history includes a partial lung removal due to pleurisy in his youth, which has made him more prone to lung infections. He also underwent surgery for diverticulitis in 2021 and has faced several falls in the past year, injuring his arm and chin.

The Pope, who has been in office since 2013, has maintained a busy schedule despite his health challenges, including international travel. Last September, he completed a 12-day tour of Southeast Asia and Oceania, the longest of his papacy. However, his declining health has led him to take a more cautious approach in recent months.

Despite his illnesses, Pope Francis has downplayed his health problems, stating in his autobiography, HOPE, that “the reality is, quite simply, that I am old.” He added that leadership of the Church is based on the head and heart, rather than physical strength.

Pope Francis has a personal healthcare team, including internist Dr. Roberto Bernabei and his nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti, who has been credited with saving his life in 2021 after diagnosing a serious intestinal problem.

While his health remains a concern, the Pope has continued to lead the global Catholic community, overseeing daily audiences, Masses, and other events, though he now relies on aides to help with speaking duties.

The Vatican has requested prayers for the Pope’s swift recovery as he continues his treatment.