Cardinal Pietro Parolin, number two of the Vatican, has communicated that it is preferable for Pope Francis not to receive visitors to allow him to rest and make the therapies he is undergoing more effective. Parolin also mentioned that the news from the Gemelli hospital is encouraging and that the Pontiff is in the process of recovery.
Pope Francis is expected to remain in the hospital at least throughout the next week, until he fully recovers from his bilateral pneumonia and can continue his treatment at his residence in Santa Marta. Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of Surgery at the Gemelli hospital in Rome and who has previously operated on the Pontiff, indicated that although he is responding positively to treatment, he is still not out of danger due to his condition as a fragile patient because of his age and the infection he is facing.
On the other hand, regarding rumors and false news about meetings of cardinals, Parolin stated that he is unaware of such maneuvers and prefers to stay away from speculation. He emphasized that what is fundamental at this moment is the health and recovery of Pope Francis, as well as his return to the Vatican, dismissing any unconfirmed information.
Pope Francis was hospitalized on Friday, February 14, at the Gemelli hospital in Rome due to respiratory problems. It has since been reported that his health condition is critical after suffering a respiratory crisis that required oxygen supply and blood transfusions due to complications such as thrombocytopenia.
In light of speculation about a possible resignation of Pope Francis, Cardinal Parolin has dismissed such rumors, calling them "futile speculations." The current priority is the recovery and well-being of the Holy Father, disregarding unconfirmed information and maintaining focus on his health.
