Pope Francis taken to hospital just weeks after health scare

The Vatican has not confirmed the visit but his trip to hospital was reported by ANSA news agency, quoting what it said were sources with knowledge of the matter.

It comes after the pope spent five days in hospital earlier this year with a lung infection and last month skipped audiences due to a fever.

The 86-year-old marked his 10th anniversary in the role in March.

There have been significant concerns over the Pope's health in recent years, particularly because it is widely known that when he was in his 20s he had part of one of his lungs removed in his native Argentina.

He joked early into his tenure: "This will last a short time, two or three years, and then we go to the house of the father."

Francis's check up is taking place at the Gemelli hospital's papal suite, which is reserved exclusively for popes and contains a private chapel.

In July 2021 he had part of his colon removed in an operation aimed at addressing a painful bowel condition called diverticulitis.

He said earlier this year that the condition had returned.

Despite his recent health issues, Francis continues to keep up a busy schedule.

Last week the Vatican announced plans for him to visit Mongolia.

It said that he would make the visit between August 31 and September 4.

He is also due to visit Portugal from August 2-6 to attend the World Youth Day in Lisbon and visit the Shrine of Fatima.