Pope Francis hospitalized with flu symptoms

Pope Francis, 87, underwent a medical check-up at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after holding a public audience at the Vatican after continuing to experience flu symptoms. Due to health reasons, the pope has entrusted the weekly readings for the Wednesday audiences to an aide.

Despite canceling previous appointments due to a mild flu, the father of the Catholic Church continued with his agenda, including a meeting with the German chancellor scheduled for Saturday, Olaf Scholz

. However, the fact that he was suffering from a cold during Wednesday’s audience and would rather have the catechism read by someone else remains a concern for many believers.

The Vatican had previously reported that Bergoglio had mild flu symptoms but no fever, and some hearings were suspended as a precaution. Despite his illness, Francis took part in last Sunday’s Angelus prayers and read them normally before the faithful in the square. St. Peter in the Vatican.

This is not the first time that the Argentine pope has faced health problems in recent months; various leg, knee and hip ailments and complications have been with him from 2023 to 2024, leading him to the operating room for hernia surgery. At the end of November, he fell ill with bronchitis, causing him to cancel some events and celebrate the Angelus privately. However, he has fully recovered and continues his usual schedule.

At the end of Wednesday’s audience, the successor of St. Peter expressed his concern for those affected by the war, such as Ukraine, Palestine and Israeland asked for prayers for the victims of recent attacks Burkina Faso and for the people Haitifacing crime and kidnapping by armed gangs.

The Pope also reflected on the upcoming anniversary Mine Ban Convention It also expressed regret that these devices continue to affect innocent civilians, especially children, many years after the end of hostilities. In his speech, he thanked those who helped the victims and cleaned up the affected areas, stressing the importance of working for peace and well-being for all. @mundiario