Pope Francis, 86, improving after being admitted to hospital with breathing difficulties

POPE Francis is seen grimacing as he is helped to his popemobile before his admission to hospital with breathing difficulties.

The Roman Catholic leader, 86, was yesterday said to be improving and felt well enough to work from his hospital room — although it remains unclear how long he will be staying.

EPA

Pope Francis is seen grimacing as he is helped to his popemobile before his admission to hospital with breathing difficulties[/caption]

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said: “His Holiness rested well during the night.

“His clinical picture is improving and he is continuing his planned treatment.

“This morning, he read some newspapers and resumed work.

“Before lunch, he prayed and he received the Eucharist.”

Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Wednesday and prescribed a few days’ rest for a respiratory infection said to not be Covid.

He had greeted the faithful in the popemobile at his weekly audience hours before his hospital admission.

There are now questions over whether he will be well enough to attend services for the upcoming Holy Week and Easter.