Flu Prompts John Paul II to Halt Audiences, Symptoms Were Apparent Sunday

VATICAN CITY, JAN. 31, 2005 (Zenit.org).- John Paul II suspended audiences scheduled for today because he is suffering from the flu.

In a statement published today, Joaquín Navarro Valls, director of the Vatican press office, said that "due to flulike symptoms, which began yesterday, the Holy Father has been advised to suspend the audiences scheduled for today."

The symptoms were evident Sunday to thousands of pilgrims in St. Peter's Square who were on hand for the praying of the midday Angelus with the Pope.

Although the Holy Father managed to express an amused smile when two children, who were with him in the Papal Apartments, released two doves in the air as a symbol of peace, his voice was hoarse and he had trouble breathing.

Source.

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