Pope Francis Hospitalized for Bronchitis Treatment

Pope Francis has been hospitalized for tests and continued treatment of bronchitis, according to the Vatican. The 88-year-old, who has been the head of the Catholic Church since 2013, has faced several health challenges recently, including influenza. Earlier, he informed pilgrims of his strong cold, later identified as bronchitis.

Pope Francis was admitted to the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli hospital for tests and ongoing treatment of his bronchitis, as stated by the Vatican on Friday. This follows his recent statement about suffering from a strong cold, now identified as bronchitis.

The Vatican's announcement detailed that the 88-year-old Pontiff required diagnostic tests post his morning audiences to manage his condition in a hospital setting effectively.

Pope Francis, who ascended to the papacy in 2013, has experienced multiple health issues over the past two years, further complicated by his current bronchitis diagnosis.

(With inputs from agencies.)