Pope Francis has been hospitalized for bronchitis and has cancelled events for the next three days.
“This morning, at the end of the audiences, Pope Francis was admitted to the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli for some necessary diagnostic tests and to continue his treatment for bronchitis,” the Vatican said in a statement.
The pope also canceled events three days out including the Jubilee Audience, a public meeting with pilgrims Feb. 15, Holy Mass on Feb. 16, and a meeting with artists Feb. 17.
This is the latest health issues that have plagued Pope Francis, 88, in recent years, including influenza and related health issues.
He had surgery in 2021 for diverticulitis. He also had surgery in 2023 to repair a hernia.
More recently, the pope injured his right forearm after falling at his residence in January.
He also fell bruised his face in December.
In his autobiography, “HOPE,” the pontiff wrote about his health.
“I am well,” he wrote. “The reality is, quite simply, that I am old.”
The pope, is often is seen using a wheelchair, addressed that issue, too.
“The Church is governed using the head and the heart, not the legs,” he said.
