Pope makes first public appearance following illness

Sunday, 1 March 2020 15:18

Pope Francis has made his first public appearance in four days after being forced to cancel some activities due to an illness.

He appeared at the window of the Vatican's Apostolic Palace for his weekly Sunday noon blessing.

It comes just days after he was seen coughing and sneezing during his Ash Wednesday Mass in Rome.

The Vatican described the Pope's condition as a "mild indisposition" without specifying any details.

Meanwhile, Italy has registered 29 deaths and more than 1,100 infections since February 20, making it the worst outbreak of coronavirus in Europe.

More from International

US military says it's completed 13th consecutive night of strikes on Iran

The US military said on Thursday night it had carried out a fresh wave of strikes on Iranian military targets, marking the 13th consecutive night of American attacks.
India's youth leaders to talk with government but press on with nationwide protests

Leaders of India's youth-led "cockroach" movement will meet the government on Friday to try and resolve a face-off over national examination paper leaks although they will not halt nationwide protests, a spokesperson for the group said.
Spain declares national emergency over wildfires near Madrid and in Avila

The Spanish government on Thursday night declared a national emergency after a series of wildfires threatened communities near Madrid and in the neighbouring province of Avila, forcing more than 10,000 people to evacuate as firefighters struggled to contain the blazes.
Saudi-owned vessel targeted in Red Sea, crew safe, state news agency says

Saudi Arabian state news agency on Thursday confirmed that tanker Encelia was ablaze after an assault while sailing in the Red Sea.
Rubio says US committed to helping end Ukraine war after meeting Lavrov

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Thursday that the United States remains prepared to play a "constructive role" in helping bring an end to the war in Ukraine, following talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of an ASEAN gathering in Manila.