Pope Franciswas released from the hospital on Saturday after seeking treatment for bronchitis, according to the Vatican.

The Vatican said the 86-year-old pontiff was hospitalized at Gemelli Polyclinic on Wednesday, where hereceived antibiotics administered intravenously, per the Associated Press.

When asked how he felt as he was leaving the hospital, Francis gave a thumbs up and joked, “Still alive, you know,” according to the outlet.

Pope Francis.James Devaney/GC Images

NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 25: Pope Francis travels through Central Park to meet and greet New Yorkers on September 25, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by James Devaney/GC Images)

Pope Francis' hospital stay comes after Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni said in a statement that the Pope recently “complained of some respiratory difficulties” before visiting Policlinico A. Gemelli for “medical checks,” per CNN.

Pope Francis.Massimo Valicchia/NurPhoto via Getty

Pope francis

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Before he was hospitalized, the pontiff spoke at his weekly general audience at St Peter’s Square on Wednesday, per the outlets. Afterwards, he was taken to the hospital for what the Vatican said at the time were “previously scheduled tests.” His schedule for Thursday was cleared, according to CNN.

The pope’s hospitalization came as the Catholic Church prepares for one of its biggest holidays: Easter.

The pontiff will also take a trip to Hungary this month, according to the BBC.

source: people.com