Pope Francis in hospital with a respiratory infection
Pope Francis has a respiratory infection and will have to spend several days in a hospital in Rome, the Vatican says.
The 86-year-old man has had breathing problems in recent days but does not have Covid, the statement said.
It said he would need “several days of appropriate hospital medical therapy”.
“Pope Francis is moved by the many messages received and expresses his gratitude for the closeness and prayer,” the statement added.
His closest staff, including security, are expected to stay overnight at Gemelli Hospital, a person with direct knowledge told the BBC.
This is the busiest time of the year for Pope Francis, with many events and services planned before the Easter weekend.
Palm Sunday mass is scheduled for this weekend and Holy Week and Easter celebrations next week.
He is also scheduled to visit Hungary at the end of April.
On Wednesday morning, he presided over his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square. He looked in good spirits but could be seen grimacing as he was helped into the car.
The Pope has been using a wheelchair in recent months due to mobility issues related to his knee.
He also underwent surgery in 2021 to treat a colon problem. In January, he said the condition had returned.
Despite his illness, the Pope remained active and traveled abroad. In February, he visited the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan.
In January, the pope led the funeral of his predecessor, Benedict XVI – who was the first pope to voluntarily step down in centuries. He said it was due to ill health.
Pope Francis has previously indicated that he might also wish to follow in Benedict’s footsteps should his health deteriorate.
