Pope Francis has been admitted to the Gemelli Hospital in Rome for treatment of bronchitis, sparking renewed concerns about the health of the 88-year-old pontiff. The Vatican revealed that he was taken to the hospital after conducting his usual audiences on Friday morning. Earlier this month, he had already been diagnosed with bronchitis, prompting him to hold sessions from the Casa Santa Marta instead of the Apostolic Palace.
In recent weeks, Pope Francis has been struggling with respiratory challenges, with aides reading his homilies in his absence during events. Despite these issues, he has remained active, presiding over audiences and celebrating outdoor Masses during the ongoing 2025 Jubilee.
His latest hospital visit comes after a busy day that included meetings with Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico and CNN CEO Mark Thompson. Historically, the pope has faced health issues, having had part of a lung removed in his youth, and in 2023 underwent multiple treatments for bronchitis and surgery for a hernia. He has also experienced falls recently, injuring himself in the process. During a general audience last week, he acknowledged his struggle with bronchitis, allowing someone else to continue his reading.
In recent weeks, Pope Francis has been struggling with respiratory challenges, with aides reading his homilies in his absence during events. Despite these issues, he has remained active, presiding over audiences and celebrating outdoor Masses during the ongoing 2025 Jubilee.
His latest hospital visit comes after a busy day that included meetings with Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico and CNN CEO Mark Thompson. Historically, the pope has faced health issues, having had part of a lung removed in his youth, and in 2023 underwent multiple treatments for bronchitis and surgery for a hernia. He has also experienced falls recently, injuring himself in the process. During a general audience last week, he acknowledged his struggle with bronchitis, allowing someone else to continue his reading.
