The Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, states that:

“In recent days Pope Francis has complained of some respiratory difficulties, and this afternoon he attended the A. Gemelli Hospital to undergo some medical checks.

The outcome of these showed a respiratory infection (excluding Covid 19 infection) which will require a few days of appropriate hospital medical treatment.

Pope Francis is touched by the many messages received and expresses his gratitude for the closeness and prayers.”