The apostolic nuncio to Iraq tests positive for COVID-19

Il apostolic nuncio in Iraq, positive for COVID-19: Vatican ambassador to Iraq Mitja Leskovar. Positive result for COVID-19, two officials told AFP on Sunday, a few days before the historic visit of Pope Francis.

“Yes, it turned out positive, but it will have no impact on the visit, ”said an Iraqi official involved in the papal plans.
An Italian diplomat also confirmed the contagion.
As apostolic nuncio to Baghdad, Leskovar had traveled across the country in recent weeks to prepare for the pope's ambitious visit, including visits to Mosul in the north, the sanctuary city of Najaf and the southern site of Ur.
During the travel abroad, popes usually stay at the nuncio's residence, but Iraqi officials have not revealed where Francis will reside during his trip, citing security reasons.

Iraq is experiencing a resurgence of coronavirus infections. The health ministry attributed it to a new, more rapidly spreading strain that first emerged in the UK.
The country of 40 million is recording around 4.000 new cases a day. Close to the peak it had reached in September, with total infections approaching 700.000 and deaths at nearly 13.400.
Pope francesco, as well as his Vatican staff and the dozens of international journalists traveling with him have already been vaccinated.
Iraq itself has yet to start its vaccination campaign.

The apostolic nuncio to Iraq is positive for COVID-19: what the world press says

The apostolic nunciature in Iraq reported on Sunday 28 February that the Nuncio Mitja Leskovar. Positive result for COVID less than a week before Pope Francis' trip to the country. "The Apostolic Nuncio recently tested positive for the COVID 19 virus. His symptoms are very light and from self-isolation, he continues to work for the preparation of the Apostolic Journey", tweeted Sunday Fr. Ervin Lengyel, secretary of the Nunciature in Baghdad. Archbishop Leskovar, 51, was born in Slovenia and was appointed Apostolic Nuncio to Iraq in May 2020 by Pope Francis. The Apostolic Visit of Pope Francis to Iraq will take place from 5 to 8 March.