Pope Francis hospitalized for ‘respiratory infection,’ will require treatment

close Video

Pope Francis retirement rumors driven by ‘confusion’: Jonathan Morris

Theologian and Fox News contributor Jonathan Morris responds to rumors that Pope Francis could soon retire amid alleged health concerns.

Pope Francis was hospitalized after having difficulty breathing recently and tests revealed a respiratory inspection, a Vatican spokesman said.

“The tests showed a respiratory infection (COVID-19 infection excluded) that will require some days of medical therapy,” Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said on Wednesday.

Bruni said that Francis doesn’t have COVID-19.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Pope Francis leads his traditional Wednesday General Audience at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, March 8, 2023.  (Stefano Costantino/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Francis is 86.

This is a developing story.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Adam Sabes is a writer for Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to Adam.Sabes@fox.com and on Twitter @asabes10.