Pope Francis was hospitalized on Friday due to worsening bronchitis and is currently being treated at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. The Vatican confirmed his admission was necessary for diagnostic tests and treatment related to his ongoing respiratory infection.

The pontiff, aged 88, was diagnosed with bronchitis on February 6 but had been managing a busy schedule, still presiding over audiences and a public Mass until his condition deteriorated. According to an official statement by the Vatican, Francis "appeared bloated and pale" during his last few engagements due to possible medication-induced water retention, indicating the severity of his health issues.

Doctors have ordered him to have "absolute rest" to facilitate recovery. This means he will not deliver his traditional Sunday blessing, which he could have done from his hospital room if well enough. The press has reported that during his first night at the hospital, he managed to eat breakfast and read the newspaper, suggesting he was in good spirits.

Prior to hospitalization, the pope delegated his speeches to aides, citing difficulties with breathing during his public engagements. Recently, he also suffered two falls that resulted in an injured arm and chin. His health has been a growing concern, as he has a history of significant health problems, including a partial lung removal in his youth and intestinal surgery in recent years.

Initial tests confirmed a respiratory tract infection along with a slight fever. While the Vatican has not specified how long he will remain hospitalized, they have announced that he has canceled all scheduled audiences through at least Monday.

The latest reports indicate that Pope Francis is responding positively to treatment, with improvements being noted in his condition. Historical patterns of his recent health episodes indicate a trend of recurring respiratory issues.

Francis has been the leader of the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide since 2013 and has battled health challenges throughout his papacy. This hospitalization marks his fourth since his election, generating concern regarding the continuing impact of his deteriorating health.

During his previous hospitalizations, he has often managed to maintain contact with the public and religious followers, reflecting his determination to lead despite his physical challenges. Further details regarding his recovery and return to public ministry are expected from the Vatican in the coming days.

For more information on the events surrounding this development, see the reports by Independent and NPR.