Pope Francis is set to be hospitalized on Friday for essential tests and to continue his treatment for bronchitis, according to a statement from the Vatican.
The Vatican announced this morning that following his scheduled audiences, Pope Francis will be admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic for necessary diagnostic evaluations and to receive ongoing bronchitis treatment in a hospital environment.
The Pope had several private meetings planned for this morning, as is customary, and will proceed to the hospital after completing these engagements.
Last month, the Pope experienced a fall at his residence, resulting in an arm injury, as reported by the Vatican in January.
The Vatican stated, “Pope Francis sustained a bruise to his right forearm, with no fractures.” As a precaution, his arm was immobilized.
The 88-year-old pontiff was photographed by the Vatican after the incident, with his arm supported in a soft sling.
Earlier this month, Pope Francis stumbled while entering the Vatican auditorium for an audience when the handle of his walking stick broke, but he managed to prevent himself from falling.
The pope frequently relies on a wheelchair or cane due to knee issues and has experienced two falls in the last two months.
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Just two days ago, during his weekly general audience, Pope Francis paused to remark, “me, with my bronchitis, I cannot (read) still,” adding, “I hope that next time I can,” before an aide completed the reading.
He was diagnosed with bronchitis the previous Thursday. Friday’s hospitalization comes ahead of a packed schedule of events this weekend to mark the Catholic church’s jubilee year.
