The Vatican has officially announced the cancellation of Pope Francis’ engagements for the upcoming weekend.
The 88-year-old pontiff has been receiving treatment for bronchitis at Rome’s Gemelli hospital since Friday.
On Monday, Vatican officials disclosed that his respiratory tract infection presented a “complex clinical picture,” necessitating an extended hospital stay.
Later that evening, an update confirmed that Pope Francis remained in a “stable” condition and was not running a fever.
The Vatican spokesperson, Matteo Bruni, previously stated that recent test results revealed the pontiff is suffering from a “polymicrobial respiratory tract infection,” requiring adjustments to his medication.
Polymicrobial infections result from a combination of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites.
Despite his illness, the Vatican noted that Pope Francis “read and worked” on Monday morning and expressed that he was “touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he continues to receive in these hours.”
The Pope’s health has been a growing concern, with the 88-year-old experiencing multiple bouts of influenza and other ailments in recent years.
Meanwhile, pilgrims visiting the Vatican this week have continued to offer prayers for his swift recovery.
