Catholic Pope Francis Hospitalised For Bronchitis Treatment In Rome, Cancels Scheduled Events

The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis has cancelled all his scheduled events for the next three days following his hospitalisation for bronchitis treatment at the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli in Rome on Friday.

“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 cancelled engagements include the Jubilee Audience with pilgrims on February 15, Holy Mass on February 16, and a meeting with artists on February 17.

At 88, the pontiff has faced recurring health challenges over the past two years, including influenza and related complications.

He previously underwent surgery in 2021 for diverticulitis and another procedure in 2023 to repair a hernia.

Last month, he was seen wearing a sling after injuring his right forearm in a fall at his residence. The Vatican clarified that he did not suffer any fractures.

This followed a separate fall in December in which he bruised his face.

In his autobiography HOPE, published last month, Francis addressed his health, writing, “I am well.”

He added, “The reality is, quite simply, that I am old.”

Despite requiring a wheelchair due to persistent knee and back pain, the Pope reaffirmed his leadership, stating, “The Church is governed using the head and the heart, not the legs.”