Pope Francis Cancels Audiences Due to Flu-Like Symptoms Ahead of Belgium and Luxembourg Trip

Pope Francis cancelled his audiences on Monday due to a 'slight flu-like state,' ahead of his trip to Belgium and Luxembourg. The 87-year-old pontiff has faced numerous health challenges and has had a demanding schedule since returning from a lengthy tour of Asia. The Vatican emphasized the cancellations were precautionary.

Pope Francis cancelled his audiences on Monday due to a 'slight flu-like state,' the Vatican announced. The 87-year-old pontiff is set to visit Belgium and Luxembourg later this week, with a packed itinerary that includes celebrating the 600th anniversary of Belgium's main Catholic universities.

The Vatican described the clearing of Francis' schedule for the day as a 'precautionary' measure. The pontiff has had a series of health issues over the years, including a recent hospitalization for a respiratory infection and multiple surgeries.

Francis has maintained a demanding schedule since returning from an 11-day trip through Asia earlier this month, which included numerous audiences with bishops and other officials. His upcoming trip to Belgium and Luxembourg, followed by a three-week synod, will further test his health. The Vatican revealed the texts the pope intended to deliver to the participants of his now-cancelled Monday audiences.

(With inputs from agencies.)