Pope Francis is currently undergoing intravenous antibiotic treatment for a lung condition that has caused some respiratory issues, as announced by the Vatican on Monday. However, it has been confirmed that he does not have pneumonia or a fever.
On Sunday, Pope Francis himself disclosed his health issue, which led to the cancellation of his usual appearance at St. Peter’s Square for the weekly public address. Instead, he delivered his blessing from the chapel located in his Vatican residence.
The Vatican’s press office, led by director Matteo Bruni, issued a statement on Monday clarifying the pope’s health status. Pope Francis, who will be turning 87 next month, underwent a CT scan on Saturday at a hospital in Rome, which confirmed the absence of pneumonia. “The pope’s condition is stable and good, without fever, and there is a noticeable improvement in his breathing,” Bruni stated.
As part of the recovery process, the Vatican has decided to reschedule some of the pope’s significant upcoming commitments to allow him adequate time and energy for recuperation. However, some easier engagements that align with his current health status are being retained. Bruni did not specify which events are being postponed.
One of the maintained appointments included a private audience on Monday morning with Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña, which took place at the pope’s residence instead of the Apostolic Palace.
Despite his health concerns, Pope Francis, in his televised remarks on Sunday, expressed his intention to proceed with a planned three-day visit to the United Arab Emirates starting on December 1. He is scheduled to give a speech on climate change at the United Nations COP28 climate talks.
During his Sunday blessing, a visible bandage on his right hand indicated the placement of a cannula for the intravenous treatment he is receiving.
