Pope Francis: Health improving after night in hospital

Pope Francis' health is improving after he was taken to hospital with a respiratory condition, the Vatican has confirmed.

He was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on Wednesday, for what was initially said to be a scheduled check-up.

In a statement on Thursday, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said treatment for the 86-year-old's pontiff was continuing.

"His Holiness Pope Francis rested well during the night," he said.

"This morning after breakfast, he read some newspapers and resumed work."