According to the Vatican, Pope Francis needs to spend a few days in the hospital in Rome due to a respiratory ailment. Despite not using Covid, the 86-year-old has recently developed respiratory problems, according to a statement.

It said he would need “a few days of appropriate hospital medical therapy”. “Pope Francis is touched by the many messages received and expresses his gratitude for the closeness and prayer,” the statement added.

This is the busiest time of the year for Pope Francis, with many events and services scheduled ahead of Easter weekend. A Palm Sunday Mass is scheduled this weekend, and Holy Week and Easter celebrations are next weeks.

He is also scheduled to visit Hungary at the end of April. On Wednesday morning, he presided over his weekly general audience in St Peter’s Square. He appeared in good spirits but was seen grimacing as he was helped into his vehicle.

The pontiff has used a wheelchair in recent months due to mobility problems related to his knee. He also underwent surgery to treat a colon problem in 2021. In January, he said the condition had returned.

Despite his ailments, the Pope has remained active and has undertaken trips abroad. He visited the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan in February.

In January, the Pope led the funeral of his predecessor Pope Benedict XVI – who was the first pope to step down voluntarily in centuries. He said this was due to ill health.