24/02/2005

Pope readmitted to hospital with flu relapse

Pope John Paul II has been readmitted to hospital in Rome, suffering from a relapse of flu.

The 84-year-old pontiff had been taken to hospital on February 1, suffering from laryngo-spasm, which causes breathing difficulties. Suffering from a bout of flu at the time, he remained in Gemelli Hospital until February 10. His illness caused him to miss the Vatican's Ash Wednesday services for the first ever time during his 26 years of holding the position of Pope.

The Pope, who also suffers from Parkinson's disease and arthritis, had seemed to be making a recovery from his recent illness. Yesterday, the pontiff gave an address to thousands of pilgrims, via a television link from his study. However, he has now been readmitted to Gemelli Hospital, where he has been treated several times before.

An official bulletin on his condition is not expected before tomorrow.

The incumbent Polish-born pontiff has held the position of Pope since 1978.

(KMcA/SP)

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