Pope Francis requires absolute rest to aid his recovery and will therefore not lead the Angelus prayer this Sunday.
The Pope was admitted to the Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Friday due to a respiratory infection, the Vatican reported.
"In order to facilitate his recovery, the medical staff has prescribed absolute rest, meaning that the Holy Father will not lead the Angelus prayer this Sunday, February 16.
However, he has chosen to send the text for publication," the Vatican announced on Saturday.
The 88-year-old Pope rested throughout the night and did not experience any fever, while tests conducted during the day confirmed the respiratory infection.
Bronchitis is the main cause for the hospitalization
According to an official statement, the Pope’s treatment has been adjusted based on new microbiological findings, and laboratory tests indicate improvements in certain values.
The Pope has been informed of the many messages of support and well-wishes he has received and expresses his gratitude while asking for continued prayers for his recovery.
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni explained on Saturday noon that the Pope had a peaceful night, slept well, and had breakfast as usual while reading the morning newspapers.
Pope Francis is suffering from persistent bronchitis, which in recent days has made it difficult for him to read his speeches.
Eventually, hospitalization became necessary for further examinations and treatment.
"The Holy Father, due to the persistence of bronchitis in recent days, has undergone specialized tests and has begun hospital-based medical treatment," the Vatican reported on Friday night.
Despite his breathing difficulties, which forced him to pause his readings at various events, the Pope initially sought to avoid hospitalization.
According to several media reports, he recently visited the Gemelli Center on Tiber Island to have his bronchi examined, but this was not publicly disclosed.
Despite his persistent bronchitis, Francis presided over a Mass for security forces last Sunday in St. Peter’s Square on a cold and windy day.
To prevent his condition from worsening and developing into pneumonia, the Pope ultimately followed his doctors' advice and agreed to be admitted to the Gemelli Hospital to receive the most appropriate treatment.
This marks the fourth time the Pope has been hospitalized at this facility.
In the past, he has experienced flu-like symptoms and respiratory issues, which led to a three-day hospital stay in March 2023.
In November 2023, similar health problems forced him to cancel his trip to Dubai for COP28.
