Pope Francis health update: What happened & how is he doing now? 

Pope Francis health update – 86-year-old Pope Francis is suffering from a respiratory infection and is likely to spend a few days in the hospital for treatment. The news was confirmed by Matteo Bruni, the director of the Vatican press office.

In a statement sent via telegram to the Vatican's accredited media, Matteo Bruni on Pope Francis health update said:

Pope Francis has a respiratory infection that requires a few days of appropriate medical therapy in the hospital.

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Pope Francis health: How is he doing now?

Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital after complaining of respiratory difficulties over the past few days. Several tests were carried out which showed a respiratory problem, excluding Covid-19 infection.

According to Bruni, Pope Francis was taken to Policlinico A. Gemelli, referring to the hospital where popes are treated, in an ambulance around lunchtime, after the Pope complained of chest pain.

Pope Francis health update - 86-year-old Pope is suffering from a respiratory infection. (Photo via Instagram/franciscus)

Pope Francis Health update: What exactly happened?

According to the Vatican, Pope Francis was taken to the hospital for a regular checkup on Wednesday, March 29.

After returning to Santa Marta, where the Pope resides, and after conducting the usual Wednesday public audience, he started to experience chest pains and was further rushed to the hospital.

Pope’s personal health care assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti, who always accompanies him, called the ambulance and took him to Gemelli hospital. Immediately after reaching the Coronary unit of the Gemelli hospital, Pope Francis underwent several check-ups.

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What is respiratory tract infection?

Respiratory tract infection (RTI) is an infection of the lower or upper respiratory tract. Upper respiratory tract infections include acute rhinitis, common cold, laryngitis, acute otitis media, and acute rhinosinusitis.

Lower respiratory tract infections, on the other hand, include bronchiolitis, acute bronchitis, tracheitis, and pneumonia.

What are the signs and symptoms of upper respiratory infection?

An upper respiratory infection particularly affects the upper part of the respiratory system, which includes the throat and sinuses.

Some major symptoms of upper respiratory infection include:

• sore throat
• cough
• runny nose
• fatigue and weakness
• swollen lymph nodes
• hoarse voice
• fever
• red eyes

Some common upper respiratory tract infection treatments include over-the-counter pain relievers, rest, and fluids.

Fever is a symptom of respiratory tract infection. (Photo via Pexels/Polina Tankilevitch)

What is the latest Pope Francis health update: Pope Francis health today?

As of now, there are no further updates on the Pope’s health. The Vatican is yet to release a statement.

Pope’s closest staff and his security are expected to stay with him at the Gemelli hospital.

In recent months, Pope has also used a wheelchair due to mobility issues related to his knees. In 2021, Pope Francis also underwent surgery for a colon problem that is believed to have returned.

Despite health problems, the Pope has remained active throughout the years and has taken several trips abroad, too.