Pope Francis, who has been battling the flu, was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in central Rome after a papal audience on Wednesday. The 86-year-old pontiff arrived at the hospital on Tiber Island in a small white Fiat 500 and left shortly after under escort in the same vehicle. The Vatican did not provide immediate comments on the situation.
Earlier in the day, the Pope was wheeled into the audience hall at the Vatican, visibly fatigued as he took his seat. He has been experiencing mild flu symptoms for the past week, leading to the cancellation of appointments on Saturday and Monday. Despite his illness, he appeared for the Sunday blessing at St. Peter's Square.
