Additional Coverage:
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Polyclinic hospital on Friday for tests and ongoing bronchitis treatment. The Vatican confirmed he has a respiratory infection and is receiving medication. He is reportedly in stable condition with a mild fever, calm, and in good spirits.
The 86-year-old pontiff completed his morning audiences before heading to the hospital. He has been using a wheelchair or cane recently due to knee problems and has experienced a couple of falls in the past two months. One fall resulted in a bruised forearm, while another involved a broken walking stick.
During a recent audience, the Pope acknowledged his bronchitis, which was diagnosed last Thursday, and had an aide finish a reading for him. Due to his hospitalization, Saturday’s jubilee audience has been cancelled. Sunday’s Mass for the Jubilee of Artists will be led by Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, and a planned Monday meeting with artists has also been cancelled.