Pope Francis has been diagnosed with a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection that has led to an adjustment in his treatment and consideration of a hospitalization period, according to the Holy See. This situation has forced the cancellation of his general audience scheduled for this Wednesday.
"The complex clinical picture will require appropriate hospitalization," a Vatican statement indicated, pointing to the need to keep the pope at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome for several more days. However, it has not been specified when he might be discharged.
Spokesman Matteo Bruni clarified that this is not a worsening but a change in treatment due to a more thorough analysis that revealed the presence of a polymicrobial infection in the Argentine pontiff's respiratory pathways. Fortunately, Bruni assured that the pope is in good spirits.
On Friday and Saturday, despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis called the parish of the Holy Family, the only Catholic church in Gaza, to express his interest and concern about their situation. It has been reported that, despite his health status, the pope remains interested in keeping up with the community affected by the war in Gaza.
On the other hand, the general audience this Wednesday has been canceled, and although there is no official confirmation yet, rumors have emerged that he would also not attend the Mass for the Jubilee of Deacons next Sunday. Meanwhile, it has been reported that the pope has had a peaceful stay at the Gemelli Hospital and has kept informed on various matters through reading newspapers.
In conclusion, Pope Francis remains hospitalized due to an infection in the respiratory tract that requires specialized attention, with no date for his discharge established yet, and being, according to the Vatican, in good spirits despite the circumstances.
