Pope Francis’ Hospitalization Extended Due to Complex Respiratory Infection

Vatican City, February 17, 2025 – Pope Francis will remain hospitalized as doctors continue treating his respiratory infection, the Holy See Press Office announced on Monday. Medical tests revealed a polymicrobial infection in his respiratory tract, requiring adjustments in his treatment and prolonging his hospital stay.  

The Holy See Press Office released two new statements this afternoon regarding the Pope’s condition and his stay at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital:  

“The results of the tests carried out in recent days and today have demonstrated a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract that has led to a further change in therapy.  

All the tests carried out to date are indicative of a complex clinical picture that will require adequate hospitalization.”  

As a result, the Vatican has cancelled this week’s General Audience on Wednesday.  

Pope in Good Spirits, Contacts Gaza Parish  

Despite his illness, Pope Francis remains in good spirits and continues his pastoral outreach. On Friday and Saturday, he called the Holy Family Parish in Gaza to check on parishioners. Argentine-born Fr. Gabriel Romanelli and his assistant, Egyptian-born Fr. Yusuf Asad, confirmed that the Pope spoke with them despite ongoing communication challenges in the war-torn region.  

Fr. Romanelli told Vatican Media that Pope Francis called on the first two days of his hospitalisation; he has done so regularly during the past 15 months of conflict. “Even with a blackout in Gaza City, he insisted and managed to reach us through a video call,” the priest shared.  

Prayers and Blessings for the Pope  

Parishioners expressed their support for the Holy Father, who acknowledged feeling fatigued but reassured them of his recovery efforts. "We heard his voice. It is true; he is more tired. He himself said, ‘I have to take care of myself.’ But he listened to us well,” Fr. Romanelli said.  

On Sunday night, Pope Francis sent a written message to Fr. Romanelli’s phone, thanking the parishioners for their prayers and reciprocating with his blessing.  

“We hope he recovers soon and returns to St. Peter’s to continue his mission,” Fr. Romanelli added.

Courtsey: Vatican News