88-Year-Old Pontiff Remains in Hospital with Respiratory Infection, Spends Fourth Night Resting Comfortably

Pope Francis spent a restful fourth night in hospital before having breakfast and reading newspapers on Tuesday, according to a Vatican spokesperson.

The 88-year-old pontiff has been battling a respiratory infection for over a week. “He woke up, had breakfast, and spent some time reading newspapers as part of his usual routine,” said Matteo Bruni.

Shortly before this update, the Vatican announced the cancellation of Pope Francis’s engagements for the upcoming weekend due to his ongoing health issues.

The Pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital last Friday. “Given the Holy Father’s health condition, the Jubilee audience scheduled for Saturday, 22 February, is cancelled,” read a Vatican statement. It also mentioned that another high-ranking church official would lead Sunday’s mass in his place.

On Monday, the Vatican revealed that Pope Francis is suffering from a “polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract,” leading to adjustments in his medical treatment. Polymicrobial infections are caused by multiple micro-organisms, including bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

The statement also noted, “All tests conducted so far indicate a complex medical condition that requires continued hospital care.”

Bruni informed that another medical update would be provided on Tuesday evening.