Pope Hospitalized with Respiratory Illness... Mild Fever but Good Health

Hospitalized Due to Breathing Difficulties on the 14th
Bronchitis Symptoms Since Early This Month
"Health Condition is Good"

The health condition of Pope Francis, who was hospitalized due to breathing difficulties, is stable, according to the Italian ANSA news agency citing Vatican sources on the 15th (local time).

Statue of John Paul II at the entrance of Gemelli General Hospital where the Pope is hospitalized. Photo by Reuters and Yonhap News Agency

The Pope was admitted to Rome's Gemelli General Hospital the previous day after showing symptoms of breathing difficulties. Since early this month, the Pope, who showed signs of bronchitis, had mostly stayed at his residence in Santa Marta, Vatican, combining rest and treatment, but saw little improvement.

The Vatican Press Office announced late the previous day through a media statement that "the initial examination diagnosed a respiratory infection," adding, "new medication treatment was immediately started, and although there is a slight fever, his condition is good."

Due to the Pope's sudden hospitalization, all scheduled events for the next three days until the 17th have been canceled. The Pope had planned a private audience on the 15th, a Mass at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican on the 16th, and a visit to the Cinecitt? film studios in Rome on the 17th.

Pope Francis is 88 years old this year, making him the oldest reigning pope since Leo XIII, who passed away at the age of 93 in 1903. Concerns about his health have increased in recent years due to surgeries and frequent illnesses.