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“Pope Francis is touched by the many messages received and expresses his gratitude for the closeness and prayer,” a Vatican representative said.
After his weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square, Francis was taken to the hospital to undergo a series of tests. Earlier in the day, the Vatican said the visit and tests had been arranged.
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"In recent days, Pope Francis complained of some respiratory problems and this evening he went to the Policlinico A. Gemelli for some restorative checks," Vatican representative Matteo Bruni said in a statement, alluding to the Rome clinic where popes are usually treated.
"The result of these showed a respiratory infection (excluding Covid-19 infection) that will require a few days of appropriate hospital medical therapy." Bruni said. Later, he added: "Pope Francis is touched by the many messages received and expresses his gratitude for the closeness and the prayers."
"The Holy Father has been in Gemelli since this afternoon for some previously scheduled tests," Bruni said.
We pray for @Pontifex full recovery. This is an 86 year old man who has already lost half a lung as a young man. So a severe respiratory infection is not good news. Especially the week before Holy Week when a lot will be demanded of him. Prayers��+
— Father Edward Beck (@FrEdwardBeck) March 29, 2023
Bishops in churches throughout Italy are praying for a speedy recovery for Pope Francis, the Italian bishops' conference said in a statement Wednesday.
"In wishing the Holy Father a speedy recovery, the presidency entrusts to the Lord the doctors and medical personnel who, with professionalism and dedication, care for him and all patients," it added.
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