Pope Francis (86) apparently has an inflammation of his lungs. According to “Corriere della Sera”, he explained this via video transmission from the chapel of his residence in the Vatican. That’s why he had to cancel his appearance at the window above St. Peter’s Square, he said. He gave his blessing via video link. “Today I can’t appear at the window because I have a problem with inflammation in my lungs,” he said.
On Saturday, the 86-year-old canceled planned appointments – because of a mild flu, as the Vatican announced. It is now reported that the Pope is said to have visited a hospital for an examination.
According to media reports, the 86-year-old still wants to take part in the upcoming UN climate conference in Dubai shortly. The event takes place from November 30th to December 12th. The Pope is expected to meet with leading politicians who will take part in the climate conference. A speech by the church leader is also planned.
The Pope, who turns 87 in December, had already struggled with health problems this year: In March, Francis was hospitalized in Rome with a respiratory infection, and in May he suffered from a fever and had to cancel appointments.
In June, the pontiff had to undergo emergency surgery because of an impending intestinal obstruction and then had to stay in the hospital again for several days. The Pope’s symptoms had previously worsened, as the Vatican announced at the time. Already in the evening of the same day, officials said: “Pope Francis’ operation is over: it went without any complications.” In 2021, the Pope had already undergone surgery due to intestinal inflammation. In addition, Francis, who has been pope since 2013, is also said to have knee problems. In the past, he attended some appointments in a wheelchair.
