The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis would be admitted to a hospital in Rome for bronchitis treatment and tests.
The 88-year-old will visit the Gemelli hospital following his morning audiences on Friday, according to a brief statement.
The Pope has suffered bronchitis symptoms for several days and has asked officials to read his prepared addresses at recent engagements.
“This morning, after his audiences, Pope Francis will be admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic for necessary diagnostic tests and to continue hospital treatment for his ongoing bronchitis,” the statement said.
On Wednesday, the Pope asked a priest to read part of his speech because of his difficulties with the sickness.
“Let me ask the priest to continue to read, because I cannot yet, with my bronchitis. I hope that next time I can,” the 88-year-old said shortly after starting the speech.
He had also requested that aides read on his behalf during a Sunday mass and last Wednesday’s general audience.
He had meetings at his Vatican apartment last week in an effort to relax and heal.
In March 2023, the Pope spent three nights at the same hospital for treatment for bronchitis.
In December of the same year, he had to abandon his travel to the United Arab Emirates for the COP28 climate meeting due to another bout of illness.
The Argentine pontiff has led the Roman Catholic Church for over 12 years.
He has had a variety of health concerns throughout his life, including having a portion of one of his lungs removed at the age of 21.
