Pope Francis getting better, hospital treatment continues - Vatican

Pope Francis's health is improving after he was hospitalised with a respiratory infection and he has resumed working while treatment continues, the Vatican said on Thursday.

The pope was unexpectedly taken to hospital on Wednesday after complaining of breathing difficulties, raising fresh concerns over the health of the 86-year-old pontiff, who is suffering from a number of ailments.

"His Holiness Pope Francis rested well during the night. His clinical picture is gradually improving and he is continuing his planned treatment," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement.

"This morning after breakfast, he read some newspapers and resumed work," it added. Indicating that Francis was not confined to his bed, the statement said he had prayed in the small chapel within his private hospital suite.

"I am touched by the many messages received in these hours and I express my gratitude for the closeness and prayer," the pope wrote separately on Twitter. Francis this month marked 10 years as pope.

Bruni did not say when Francis might leave Rome's Gemelli hospital. The Vatican said on Wednesday he was expected to spend a "few days" there.