Pope Francis, battling double pneumonia, had a restful night in hospital, the Vatican said on Wednesday. The 88-year-old pope was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 with a severe respiratory infection that has required continuously evolving treatment.

Pope Francis, the 88-year-old leader of the Catholic church, had another setback in his battle with double pneumonia after suffering two acute respiratory failures when mucus in his lungs made it harder to breathe.

St Peter's Square is bustling, but behind the Vatican's walls, activities have slowed as the Catholic Church grapples with the uncertainty caused by the absence of Pope Francis. In the press room just off St Peter's Square,