Pope Francis may be released from a Rome hospital "in the coming days" after being hospitalized with a respiratory illness. He has seen a "marked improvement in his health" after taking antibiotics for a bronchitis infection, the Vatican said.
The Pope spent the afternoon "devoting himself to rest, prayer and a little work". He was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on Wednesday, for what was initially said to be a planned check-up. There he was diagnosed with bronchitis and given an antibiotic infusion.
"Based on the expected progress [of his health], the Holy Father may be released in the coming days," the Vatican statement said, citing his medical team.
Earlier on Thursday, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said the 86-year-old "rested well during the night".
"This morning after breakfast, he read some newspapers and resumed work," he said. This is the busiest time of the year for Pope Francis, with many events and services planned before the Easter weekend.
Palm Sunday Mass takes place this weekend, with Holy Week and Easter celebrations next week. Italian news agency Ansa reported that nurses were optimistic he would be discharged in time for Palm Sunday.
The Argentine pope marked 10 years as head of the Catholic Church earlier this month. He has suffered a number of health problems throughout his life, including having part of his lung removed at the age of 21. He has been using a wheelchair for the past year due to knee pain.