Pope Francis hospitalised for respiratory infection
Television journalists report live from a small hill overlooking the Gemelli hospital on March 30, 2023 in Rome, where Pope Francis was admitted on March 29. Pope Francis has been diagnosed with a respiratory infection and will require "a few days of appropriate hospital medical treatment", the Vatican said. Photo AFP, Alberto Pizzoli
Southern Europe
Pope Francis has to spend some time in the hospital because of a respiratory infection.
The Vatican explained that the 86-year-old head of the Roman Catholic Church experienced breathing problems in the last few days. He does not have a Covid infection, the Vatican stresses. That is reported by BBC.
The Pope needs a “few days of appropriate hospital medical therapy”, the statement of the Vatican read. To that end, he is admitted to the Gemelli Hospital. His closest staff is with him.
As Easter is approaching, this is usually one of the busiest periods of the year for the Pope. However, because of his health problems, he cancelled several appointments. It is still unclear whether Pope Francis will be able to preach on Palm Sunday, during Holy Week and the Easter celebrations.
Grimacing
On Wednesday morning, the Head of the Vatican still presided over his weekly general audience. He did not appear ill but was seen grimacing as he was helped into his vehicle, BBC writes.
At first, the Vatican claimed that the hospital visit of the Pope was a pre-scheduled check-up. Italian media, however, reported that he had heart problems and breathing issues.
The Pope himself says he is touched by the many messages received, Vatican News announces. He expresses his gratitude for the many prayers.
Continue
The health problems of the Pope lead to more debate on whether the Pope should continue with his office. Francis had surgery in 2021 and also deals with a severe knee problem. Earlier, he said that he would not continue if he found himself unfit to do so.
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