The Vatican announced on Wednesday Pope Francis had contracted a respiratory infection and will be in hospital for “a few days” for treatment.

What happened: According to a. had “some trouble breathing”. opinion released by the Vatican.

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“The results show a respiratory infection (Covid-19 infection excluded) that will require a few days of appropriate medical treatment in hospital,” the statement said.

“Pope Francis is touched by the many messages received and expresses his gratitude for the closeness and prayer,” the statement added.

Comments from the Vatican came hours after the pope was unexpectedly taken to hospital for tests. The Vatican said it was a routine checkup, but some Italian news reports said a TV interview with Francis was suddenly cancelled, leading them to question whether the hospital visit had been planned in advance.

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Early Wednesday, the pope attended his weekly general audience at the Vatican and appeared in good health.

According to Reuters, the pope is more prone to breathing problems and shortness of breath after having part of his lung removed in his early 20s during his priestly training in Argentina.

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