Pope Francis Hospitalized for Bronchitis Treatment: Vatican

Pope Francis was taken to the hospital on Friday morning for tests and to continue treatment of his ongoing bronchitis, the Vatican confirmed. At 88 years old, Francis, who has been the pope since 2013, has faced various health challenges, including bouts of influenza.

The Vatican released a statement saying, "This morning, at the end of his audiences, Pope Francis was admitted to the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli for some necessary diagnostic tests and to continue his treatment for bronchitis, which is still ongoing, in a hospital environment."

Earlier this month, during a weekly audience, Francis disclosed to pilgrims that he was battling a "strong cold," which was later diagnosed by the Vatican as bronchitis. Despite his illness, the pope has maintained his daily schedule, conducting meetings at his Vatican residence.

Before being hospitalized, Pope Francis met with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico. This hospitalization follows two recent falls at his Vatican residence, where he bruised his chin in December and injured his arm in January.

Rome's Gemelli hospital, known as the largest in the city, has a designated suite for treating popes. In June 2023, Francis spent nine days at the hospital for surgery to repair an abdominal hernia.