Pope Francis, who is being treated in hospital for double pneumonia, will not appear in public on Sunday to lead his usual prayer with pilgrims for a second consecutive week, the Vatican said. Francis was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 after experiencing difficulty in breathing for several days.

The recent deterioration of his health has led to fears that the Pope may be in the final chapters of his life. He also reportedly told some close aides that he thinks he "might not make it this time".