Wed Sep 25 09:22:09 UTC 2024: ## Pope Francis Cancels Appointments Due to Flu Symptoms

**VATICAN CITY** – Pope Francis has cancelled his appointments for Monday due to mild flu symptoms, according to the Vatican. The 87-year-old pontiff has faced a number of health challenges in recent years, including surgery and recurring bouts of influenza.

Despite his health concerns, the Pope has maintained a demanding schedule, including a 12-day, four-country trip to Southeast Asia and Oceania earlier in September.

The Pope’s most recent health challenges include:

* **February 2023:** Hospitalized for a bout of flu and returned to the Vatican the same day.
* **March 2023:** Hospitalized for bronchitis and recovered quickly after receiving antibiotics.
* **Late November 2023:** Cancelled a trip to the COP28 climate meeting in Dubai due to influenza and lung inflammation.
* **June 2023:** Underwent surgery to repair an abdominal hernia after experiencing painful intestinal occlusions.
* **July 2021:** Underwent surgery to remove a portion of his colon to address diverticulitis. The condition has since returned.
* **Long-standing sciatica:** This chronic nerve condition has caused the Pope to miss some events, including New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day services in 2020.
* **Knee problems:** The Pope has opted against surgery for this condition, instead using laser and magnet therapy.

The Pope has also spoken publicly about his mental health, revealing he sought help from a psychiatrist in his youth to deal with anxiety during Argentina’s military dictatorship.

Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis remains a highly visible and active figure on the world stage. His recent cancellation of appointments highlights the ongoing impact of his health struggles, but also underscores his commitment to his role as head of the Catholic Church.

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