New Delhi: Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee is suffering from viral infection and has been advised complete rest for the next two to three days, forcing him to cancel all engagements on October 22.

Vajpayee, who was examined by a team of doctors on October 21 and 22, has "upper respiratory tract infection" with symptom of sore throat, running nose and body ache, a PMO statement said.

"This has been diagnosed as viral infection. There has been some improvement in his condition. However, symptoms persist and he has been advised complete rest for the next two to three days," it said.

Vajpayee, who had complained of sore throat on October 20 and had cut short his visit to Lucknow, cancelled all engagements for the second day. His schedule included receiving former Japanese Premier Yoshiri Mori, an emissary of the incumbent, and to preside over the Annual General Body meeting of Nehru Memorial Trust and Library.

In view of Vajpayee's indisposition, the combined Commanders Conference of the armed forces to be addressed by him on October 23 has been postponed, official sources said. The conference may be held on October 26 depending on the Prime Minister's health.

PTI