Pope Francis, 88, remains under medical care at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after being admitted on Friday for tests and treatment related to bronchitis.
In an update on Monday, the Vatican reported that the Pope is battling a "polymicrobial infection" in his respiratory system, prompting adjustments to his treatment plan. Prior to his hospitalisation, he had been experiencing bronchitis symptoms for several days and had assigned others to read his prepared speeches at public engagements.
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni reassured the public that Pope Francis remains in good spirits. However, a brief statement on his condition acknowledged that medical evaluations indicate a "complex clinical picture," necessitating continued hospital care. As a result, the pontiff’s weekly general audience, usually held on Wednesdays, has been cancelled for this week.
Bruni added that a further update on the Pope’s health would be provided later on Monday.
Over the weekend, Vatican officials stated that the Pope's condition remained stable, with doctors recommending complete rest to aid his recovery. Despite his illness, he managed to hold video calls on Friday and Saturday with the Holy Family Parish in Gaza, led by Father Gabriel Romanelli.
"We heard his voice. He sounded tired, and he himself said, 'I have to take care of myself.' But he was listening attentively, and his voice was clear," Fr Romanelli shared with Vatican News.
On Sunday, the Pope, unable to lead his usual weekly prayer from St Peter’s Square or preside over a special mass for artists, sent only a text message to Fr Romanelli, thanking the parish for their prayers.
Throughout the past week, he has continued to hold limited meetings at his Vatican residence while focusing on rest and recovery.
Outside St Peter’s Basilica, visitors and residents have been expressing their well wishes.
Bernard, an Australian visitor in Rome with his children, shared his support: "We will say a prayer for the Pope. They take on this role when they are already elderly, so it’s not surprising that health issues arise."
Rome resident Armando described Pope Francis as "a great soul" and "an inspiration for us all." He added, "All the best, Pope. We are waiting for you back."
As leader of the Roman Catholic Church for nearly 12 years, Pope Francis has faced multiple health challenges. In March 2023, he was hospitalised for bronchitis treatment at the same facility. Later that year, in December, he had to cancel his planned trip to the UAE for the COP28 climate summit due to illness.
His health struggles date back to his youth, when he underwent surgery at age 21 to remove part of one of his lungs.
