The normal services of the health and hygiene sector of the Vatican city-state were “temporarily suspended” following yesterday’s positive test for Covid-19 on one patient in order “to sanitize the areas.”

In a small indication of how rapidly the contagion is affecting Italy, by the time the Vatican spokesman sent his communique to the media, the number of victims had risen dramatically—the total number of cases rising to 3,858 and deaths to 148.

It was the pope’s first public appearance in four days.

For the second day in a row, Pope Francis, who is suffering from a cold, suspended his public audiences scheduled for today, Feb. 28.

The pope’s spokesman said “his other meetings proceed regularly.” His words were intended to downplay the concern that his condition might be in any way serious.

From the beginning of his pontificate, Pope Francis has been concerned about the Holy See’s diplomats, who today number around 300, their formation and spiritual life, their welfare, their difficult and sometimes dangerous situations, their problems, and how they understand their role and mission.