“I confirm that the CT scan the Pope underwent last Saturday excluded pneumonia, but showed pulmonary inflammation causing some respiratory difficulties. For a more effective treatment, a needle cannula was placed for the infusion of antibiotic therapy intravenously. The Pope’s condition is good and stable, he does not have a fever, and his respiratory situation is markedly improving,” Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, announced this morning.

“To facilitate the Pope’s recovery,” Bruni added, “some important commitments scheduled for these days have been postponed so that he can dedicate the desired time and energy to them. Others, of an institutional nature or easier to support given the current health conditions, have been maintained.”

Yesterday, the Pope presided over the Angelus prayer from the Chapel of Santa Marta, avoiding appearing at the window of the Apostolic Palace. The text of the meditation was read by Monsignor Braida, a collaborator of the Pope in drafting texts. The Pontiff, however, confirmed that from next Friday to Sunday, he will be in Dubai to participate in the proceedings of COP28.