Vatican City, Nov 30, 2023 - Pope Francis shared with health care professionals on Thursday that he is currently battling a case of "very acute infectious bronchitis." As a result, the pope was advised against traveling to Dubai due to the extreme change in temperature.

At the age of 87, Pope Francis showed his resilience and humor as he met participants in a health care ethics seminar at the Vatican. Reflecting on his condition, he quipped, "As you can see, I am alive."

Detailing his health status, Pope Francis stated that he no longer has a fever but is still on antibiotics to combat the infectious bronchitis. Despite feeling under the weather, the pope maintained a busy schedule with nine official meetings scheduled for the morning.

The Vatican described Pope Francis' health condition as "influenza" with "lung inflammation," which has caused breathing difficulties. A CT scan conducted on November 25 at a Rome hospital ruled out pneumonia.

Acute bronchitis, an inflammation of the airways leading into the lungs, often caused by similar viruses to the flu or bacterial infections, is to blame for Pope Francis' current health situation. The condition can lead to a persistent cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain. It is important to note that acute bronchitis can be contagious, according to medical experts at the Mayo Clinic.

In addition to canceling his trip to Dubai, the pontiff's doctors have advised him against attending the United Nations COP28 climate conference due to the flu and respiratory inflammation. Explaining the decision, Pope Francis highlighted the drastic temperature difference between Dubai's heat and the air-conditioned environment, stating that it would not be conducive to his bronchial condition.

This is not the first time Pope Francis has faced health concerns. In March, he was hospitalized for a respiratory infection, and on November 6, he expressed feeling unwell, which the Vatican attributed to a minor cold.

During his address to the Ethics of Healthcare Management seminar, Pope Francis emphasized his support for preventive medicine, stating, "Health is like a contrary thing; it is strong and fragile... Poorly cared for health gives way to fragility. I like preventive medicine very much because it prevents before events occur."

As the pope continues his recovery from acute infectious bronchitis, the faithful around the world extend their prayers for his well-being.