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Thursday, December 12, 2024
Independent AfricaPope Francis hospitalized in Rome for medical tests

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Pope Francis hospitalized in Rome for medical tests

Pope Francis, who recently battled the flu, was admitted to a hospital in Rome for diagnostic testing after his papal audience on Wednesday, the Vatican confirmed, withholding further details.

Arriving at the Gemelli Hospital on Tiber Island in a modest white Fiat 500, the Pope departed under escort in the same vehicle after a brief visit.

Earlier, the 86-year-old pontiff was wheeled into the audience hall at the Vatican, showing signs of weariness as he took his seat. Despite recent walks to his chair, he has struggled with mild flu symptoms over the past week.

Francis canceled engagements on Saturday and Monday due to illness but maintained his usual Sunday blessing from St. Peter’s Square.

Last week, during Ash Wednesday services, the Pope coughed frequently and opted out of the traditional procession, reminiscent of a similar bout with illness at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Having undergone lung surgery in his youth and colon surgery in 2021, Pope Francis has experienced ongoing health challenges, using a wheelchair and cane since last year due to knee injuries.

During Wednesday’s audience, the Pope commemorated the 25th anniversary of the Anti-Personnel Mines Convention and offered prayers for peace in the Middle East, Ukraine, and for victims of recent attacks in Burkina Faso and Haiti.

Following the audience, Pope Francis engaged with well-wishers for approximately an hour from his wheelchair, exchanging words, blessing infants, and sharing gifts.

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