Pope Francis in hospital with respiratory infection

Pope Francis has been admitted to hospital for a respiratory infection and is expected to remain there for a few days, the Vatican has said.

The 86-year-old has had breathing difficulties in recent days, but does not have Covid, its statement said.

Italian news agency Ansa reported nurses were optimistic he would be out of hospital in time for Palm Sunday this weekend.

It added tests had ruled out heart problems and pneumonia.