King Harald’s health remains stable after the Norwegian
monarch’s condition deteriorated over the weekend.
The Norwegian Royal Court issued a fresh update on Monday
afternoon, confirming that there have been no significant changes
in the 89-year-old monarch’s health.
Harald remains at the National Hospital in Oslo, where he is
being treated for a bacterial infection in his blood.
The Palace said the situation remains stable, offering some
reassurance after the country’s King’s health worsened over the
weekend.
The latest update comes just one day after the Royal Court
revealed that Harald’s health had deteriorated while he was being
treated in hospital.
His Majesty has been receiving antibiotics for the bacterial
infection and has responded to the treatment.
His condition subsequently stabilised, and Monday’s statement
confirms there has been no significant change since Sunday’s
announcement.
King Harald will remain in hospital and is on sick leave until
further notice.
The latest health setback came after the monarch was admitted to
the National Hospital last week following concerns about side
effects from his treatment for haemolytic anaemia.
Harald had been receiving cortisone for the condition, which
causes red blood cells to be destroyed faster than the body can
replace them.
Doctors became concerned about fluid retention linked to the
treatment, prompting his hospital admission.
Crown Prince Haakon continues to act as Regent while his father
remains in hospital.
The Crown Prince has regularly taken on the role when King
Harald is unable to carry out his duties and is currently
performing the constitutional responsibilities of the Norwegian
head of state.
Queen Sonja has also continued with her planned engagements,
including a visit to Trøndelag which King Harald had been due to
attend before his latest illness.
The Norwiegian King’s health has been closely followed in
Norway, with NRK1 airing a special nine-minute bulletin on Sunday
evening after news of his deterioration emerged.
Harald has experienced a number of health problems in recent
years, including several hospital admissions for infections, heart
surgery and the implantation of a permanent pacemaker.
