On Thursday, Pope Francis disclosed that he is suffering from a severe and highly contagious type of bronchitis, which has unfortunately hindered his plans to attend the COP28 climate summit in Dubai this weekend. The Pope, who will be turning 87 in December, has faced various health challenges recently, including a hospital stay in June. However, he continues to work and engage in meetings.
During an audience at a seminary focusing on health and ethics, as reported in a Vatican transcript, Pope Francis humorously remarked, “As you can see, I am still alive.” He explained that his doctor advised against the Dubai trip due to the extreme heat and the transition from hot outdoor temperatures to air-conditioned environments, which could aggravate his bronchial condition. He expressed relief that his illness was not pneumonia but confirmed it was a serious form of infectious bronchitis.
The Pope also mentioned that he was taking antibiotics, aligning with what the Vatican had announced in a statement the previous day.
In another engagement with theologians, Pope Francis asked for prayers, saying, “Pray for me. Pray for me, not against, because this job is not easy. Thank you.”
Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, in a recent interaction with reporters, indicated that he would likely head the Vatican’s delegation at the climate discussions in Dubai, stepping in for the ailing Pope.
