Pope Francis, who underwent a lung removal surgery in his youth, was hospitalized on Saturday after contracting the flu. The Vatican announced that the tests, including a CAT scan, had ruled out any respiratory problems, ensuring that his condition was not linked to any respiratory issues. The hospitalization came amid a string of health concerns, as the 86-year-old pontiff prepared to celebrate his 87th birthday next month.
Francis was treated at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where he had been treated for a respiratory infection earlier this year. Despite showing some unusual symptoms, the Vatican did not indicate any changes to his plans, including a trip to Dubai scheduled for the Cop28 conference on climate change. This comes as no surprise, given Francis’s determination to continue his busy schedule despite his recent health setbacks.
Pope Francis
The Pope’s health has been a subject of public concern in recent months, following abdominal surgery to repair a hernia and remove intestinal scarring just a few months ago. In response to questions about his well-being, Francis often jokes, saying “Still alive, you know.” While his health issues may be a cause for concern, Francis’s resilience is inspiring, and he appears to be recovering from the flu.
The Vatican has confirmed that Francis will proceed with his planned activities, including the trip to Dubai, which marks a major milestone in his efforts to address climate change. As the Pope continues to navigate his busy schedule, his determination to push through health concerns sends a powerful message of hope and resilience.
