05 / 10
King Harald remains in hospital
Norway’s King Harald remains in hospital after his health worsened, though the palace says his condition is stable.
What happened
Norway’s royal household announced that King Harald V’s health worsened in hospital over the weekend. The 89-year-old is being treated with antibiotics for a bacterial bloodstream infection and has responded to treatment. The palace described his condition as stable and said he would remain in hospital and away from duties.
Numbers
- 89 yearsAge of Norway’s king — Europe’s oldest reigning monarch
- 1991Year Harald became king — He has reigned since then
- 2 weeksInitial period of sick leave — Leave was later extended
Questions
- What is haemolytic anaemia?
- It is a blood disorder in which red blood cells are destroyed rapidly, reducing their number and causing fatigue and shortness of breath.
- Why did he need hospital care?
- Cortisone treatment for the anaemia led to fluid retention, prompting admission; the bloodstream infection was then treated with antibiotics.
- Who is handling royal duties?
- Crown Prince Haakon has served as regent during his father’s leave, taking over the monarch’s official duties in Norway.
- How had duties already changed?
- The royal household had announced a permanent reduction in Harald’s public engagements, following repeated health problems in recent years.
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
The catch
The palace has not given a prognosis, discharge date or further detail on the infection.
Hospital treatment continues.