Video content Video caption: Coronavirus: Pope Francis delivers his blessing via videolink Coronavirus: Pope Francis delivers his blessing via videolink

In a livestreamed address from the Vatican on Sunday, Pope Francis said: "It's a bit strange this Angelus prayer today, with the Pope caged in the library, but I see you and I am close to you."

Today's unusual delivery was to "adhere to the precautionary measures", he said.

Up to 16 million people have been placed in quarantine in Italy in a bid to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

The Pope made a brief appearance in person, waving from one of the windows to crowds who had gathered outside in the Vatican.