Pope Francis in Rome hospital with respiratory infection

According to the Vatican, Pope Francis is in a hospital in Rome for a few days due to a respiratory infection. The 86-year-old has been experiencing breathing difficulties but does not have Covid.

The Vatican statement said that he would receive “appropriate hospital medical therapy” during his stay. The Pope’s closest staff will remain with him at the hospital.

This is a busy time of the year for the Pope with many events and services planned ahead of Easter weekend.

President Joe Biden requested people to pray for the Pope’s recovery and described him as one of the “most Christ-like figures I’ve ever met.”

The Pope has undergone surgery for a colon problem in 2021 and uses a wheelchair due to mobility problems related to his knee.

Despite his health problems, the Pope has remained active and has undertaken trips abroad, including a visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan in February.

Pope’s schedule over Easter

2 April, Palm Sunday: 09:30 (7:30 GMT) Papal Mass, 12:00 Sunday Blessing
5 April: 09:00 Papal General Audience
6 April, Holy Thursday: 09:30 Chrism Mass in St Peter’s Basilica
7 April, Good Friday: 17:00 Passion of the Lord, 21:15 Stations of the Cross at the Colosseum
8 April, Holy Saturday: 20:30 Easter Vigil in St Peter’s Basilica
9 April, Easter Sunday: 10:00 Easter Sunday Mass, 12:00 Urbi et Orbi in St Peter’s Square
10 April, Easter Monday: 12:00, Pasquetta in St Peter’s Square