Pope Francis Hospitalized in Vatican for Respiratory Infection - 'Jubilee of Artists' Event Postponed

Pope Francis Hospitalized in Vatican for Respiratory Infection - 'Jubilee of Artists' Event Postponed

The Vatican Press Office has reported that Pope Francis has begun pharmacological treatment in the hospital after undergoing tests for a respiratory tract infection. Due to his hospitalization, several upcoming events, including the 'Jubilee of Artists,' have been rescheduled.

A statement released by the Vatican Press Office on Friday evening said, "Following the worsening of his bronchitis in recent days, Pope Francis was admitted to Rome's Agostino Gemelli Hospital on Friday morning, where he underwent specialist examinations and began treatment."

It further stated, "Initial tests indicate a respiratory tract infection. His clinical condition is stable, and he has a slight fever."

In a conversation with journalists, Matteo Bruni, Director of the Vatican Press Office, said, "The Pope is calm, in good spirits, and has read some newspapers."

Following the Pope's hospitalization, adjustments have been made to some upcoming Jubilee events.

"The Jubilee Audience scheduled for tomorrow, February 15, has been canceled. The Holy Mass for the Jubilee of Artists and the World of Culture, set for Sunday, February 16, will be presided over by His Eminence Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education."

"Additionally, the meeting with artists, which was previously planned for Monday at Cinecittà, will not take place due to the Pope's illness," the statement continued.

The Vatican Press Office announced that Pope Francis was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital after his morning audiences on Friday, February 14, where he will undergo several tests and continue treatment for his ongoing bronchitis.

The Pope has been suffering from bronchitis for several days, which he mentioned during a couple of public audiences. He had asked his collaborators to read his prepared remarks at the last two Wednesday General Audiences.

Earlier, on February 6, the Vatican Press Office had stated that the Pope was suffering from bronchitis and would hold his audiences at his residence, Casa Santa Marta.