Pope Francis (86) was hospitalized with a respiratory infection on Wednesday. This was announced by Matteo Bruni (46), the spokesman for the Holy See, according to "Vatican News" on Wednesday evening. "Pope Francis has been complaining of breathing difficulties for the past few days and went to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic this afternoon to undergo some medical examinations," the Vatican said in a statement.

The respiratory infection mentioned should therefore not be Covid-19. However, the pope's current state of health would "require appropriate medical treatment in hospital for a few days".

In the morning, the head of the church held the general audience on St. Peter's Square, as reported, among other things, by "Sky News". When entering and exiting the "Papamobile", however, it was already possible to see Francis grimacing in pain. The Pope has been complaining about health problems for a long time. In 2021, the 86-year-old underwent bowel surgery in the same clinic. Because of persistent knee problems, Francis has been leaning on a cane or sitting in a wheelchair for months.

His spokesman Bruni explained that the Pope was "moved by the many messages" that "he has received". The pontiff also thanks "for the closeness and the prayers".