Pope Francis is battling a respiratory illness at the hospital.

Pope Francis has a respiratory infection and will need to spend "a few days" in hospital in Rome, the Vatican has said. He is touched by the many messages received and expresses his gratitude for the closeness and prayer. His closest staff, including security, are expected to stay the night at the Gemelli Hospital. This is the busiest time of the year for Pope Francis, 86, with many events and services scheduled ahead of Easter weekend. On Wednesday morning, he presided over his weekly general audience in St Peter's Square.

Despite his ailments, the Pope has remained active and has undertaken trips abroad this year. In January, the Pope led the funeral of his predecessor Pope Benedict XVI, who was the first pope to step down voluntarily for centuries. Pope Francis has previously indicated that he may also wish to follow in Benedict's footsteps in the event of his health deteriorating.