Pope Francis Hospitalized Briefly for Diagnostic Tests Amid Flu Battle
Key Takeaways:
– Pope Francis, battling the flu, was briefly hospitalized for diagnostic tests including CT scan.
– The Vatican confirmed the tests were negative and Pope was returned to Casa Santa Marta.
– The Pope’s health has been a concern as his wheelchair usage has increased over the past year.
– Pope Francis’ engagements, including a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, are still scheduled.
Brief Hospital Visit for Pope Francis Amidst Flu Battle
Pope Francis, 86-year-old head of the Roman Catholic Church, was taken to the Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Wednesday. The Pope, battling a flu, was brought into the Roman hospital following a papal audience. He was seen arriving in his small white Fiat 500 and leaving the premises after a short duration.
Confirmation from the Vatican
Later, a statement from the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis underwent “some diagnostic tests”. These included a CT scan to rule out lung complications. Following these procedures, he was returned to Casa Santa Marta, his home. The Vatican’s Telegram channel reported, “The examination was negative and the Pope returned to Casa Santa Marta”.
Concerns Over Pope’s Health
Despite the brevity of his hospital visit, it added fuel to the concerns over Pope’s health. Earlier in the day, he was seen wheeled in a wheelchair into the audience hall at the Vatican. He later apologized to his followers, admitting he was “still a bit ill” following a mild flu. The Pope requested a bishop to perform one of the readings due to his condition.
Increasing Wheelchair Usage
The Pope’s use of a wheelchair has notably increased over the past year. Although still walking short distances, his wheelchair dependence has been more pronounced. After the papal audience, he remained seated in his chair for around an hour greeting the faithful. This went ahead before his concise hospital visit. It’s worth mentioning that Pope Francis had to cancel appointments on Saturday and Monday due to illness. However, he made his usual Sunday blessing from a window overlooking St. Peter’s Square.
Previous Hospital Visits
Over the last year, the Pope has been admitted to the hospital several times. In March, he was treated for bronchitis and subsequently underwent intestinal surgery in early June. The Vatican confirmed these incidents at the time.
Message on Social Media
Shortly after his recent hospital visit on Wednesday, a message was posted on his official account. It encouraged followers not to focus on self-interest, but promote others and rejoice in their successes.
Upcoming Engagements
Despite health hiccups, the Pope’s busy schedule is going ahead as planned. He is scheduled to meet with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday. This will be followed by an appearance at a noontime prayer, as confirmed by the Vatican.
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