Fri Feb 14 11:46:11 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis Hospitalized for Bronchitis
**Rome, Italy – February 14, 2025** – Pope Francis was hospitalized today at Rome’s Gemelli hospital for treatment of bronchitis and further diagnostic tests, the Vatican announced. The 88-year-old pontiff has been experiencing breathing difficulties for a week and cancelled his public schedule through Monday.
While he continued to hold audiences in his Vatican suite, the Pope’s condition worsened, with visible bloating attributed to medication side effects. He has reportedly been struggling to speak for extended periods due to breathing problems.
This hospitalization follows a series of health issues for the Pope, including previous bouts of bronchitis, a respiratory infection requiring intravenous antibiotics, intestinal surgery, and a fall resulting in injuries to his arm and chin. He frequently utilizes a wheelchair, walker, or cane. In March 2023, he was hospitalized for pneumonia.
The Vatican statement confirmed the Pope’s admission following his Friday audiences, which included meetings with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and CNN head Mark Thompson. The hospital stay is for ongoing bronchitis treatment and diagnostic tests. Although the duration of the hospitalization remains unspecified, the Vatican announced the cancellation of all papal events scheduled through Monday, February 17th. These included a Mass and an audience with artists.
Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis has displayed mental alertness, according to reports. Well-wishers gathered outside the hospital expressed hopes for his swift recovery. The Vatican’s announcement contrasts with previous less transparent communications surrounding the Pope’s past hospitalizations.
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