Pope Francis could be discharged from a Rome hospital "in the coming days" after he was admitted with a respiratory condition.

Axar.az reports thagt the pontiff has seen a "marked improvement in his health" after he received antibiotics for a bronchitis infection, the Vatican said.

The Pope spent the afternoon "devoting himself to rest, prayer and some work".

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

There he was then diagnosed with bronchitis, and given an antibiotic infusion, a statement from the Vatican said.

"Based on the expected progress [of his health], the Holy Father could be discharged in the coming days," the Vatican statement said, quoting his medical team.