ISTANBUL, Feb 20 (Bernama-Anadolu) -- Pope Francis remained in hospital overnight as he continues to receive treatment for pneumonia in both lungs, the Vatican announced Thursday, Anadolu Ajansi (AA) reported.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who was admitted for medical care, “spent a quiet night and has had breakfast,” the statement said, without providing further details on his condition, Sky News reported.
The Vatican announced earlier that Francis would not be attending events for deacons scheduled for this weekend and had delegated a subordinate to celebrate Mass on his behalf on Sunday.
This is the fourth time Francis has been hospitalised at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
In 2021, he underwent colon surgery there, while in 2023, he was treated for a respiratory infection and was discharged after three days. He was then hospitalised a few months later to undergo abdominal surgery for a hernia.
The pope's fragile health has sparked growing concerns about the future of his leadership as head of the Catholic Church. Francis has said several times that he would be ready to step down if his health does not allow him to continue his mission.
Francis’ predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, retired in 2013, citing a “lack of strength of mind and body.” He passed away in 2022.
-- BERNAMA-ANADOLU
