Vatican City - Pope Francis went to Rome's Gemelli hospital for some scheduled check-ups that have revealed a respiratory infection that requires a couple of days of treatment.

In a communication sent on Wednesday afternoon to journalists, Holy See Press Office director Matteo Bruni issued a statement informing that: "This afternoon, the Holy Father went to Gemelli for some previously scheduled check-ups."

In recent days Pope Francis has complained of some respiratory difficulties and in the afternoon went to the Policlinico A. Gemelli in Rome to undergo some medical check-ups.

The results show a respiratory infection (Covid 19 infection excluded) that will require a few days of appropriate hospital medical treatment.

Pope Francis arrived to the hospital by ambulance in the early afternoon and has cancelled his meetings for Thursday and Friday.

At the end of July, after returning from a week-long trip to Canada, Pope Francis said that he may need to reduce his activities.

I don't think I will be able to travel at the same pace as before. I think that at my age and with this limitation, I must save a little energy to be able to serve the Church or else think about the possibility of stopping. In all honesty, this is not a catastrophe, said Pope Francis.

At the age of 86, the Holy Father has no known serious health problems.

Pope Francis said he is touched by the many messages received and expresses his gratitude for the closeness and prayer.
-VN/RR