Pope Francis hospitalized for bronchitis treatment

Pope Francis was admitted to hospital for bronchitis treatment Friday and has canceled all scheduled events for the next three days, according to the Vatican.

“This morning, at the end of the audiences, Pope Francis was admitted to the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli for some necessary diagnostic tests and to continue his treatment for bronchitis," the Vatican said in a statement.

Following his hospitalization, the Vatican said the Pope had canceled his scheduled events for the next three days.

That included the Jubilee Audience, a public meeting with pilgrims Feb. 15, Holy Mass on Feb. 16, and a meeting with artists Feb. 17.

The 88-year-old pontiff has suffered from influenza and related health issues repeatedly over the past two years. He also underwent surgery in 2021 to address a painful condition called diverticulitis and again in 2023 to repair a hernia.