Updated
Updated · DW (English) · Aug 23
Norway's King Harald, 89, Deteriorates in Hospital as Blood Infection Prompts Antibiotics
Updated
Updated · DW (English) · Aug 23

Norway's King Harald, 89, Deteriorates in Hospital as Blood Infection Prompts Antibiotics

3 articles · Updated · DW (English) · Aug 23

Summary

  • King Harald's health worsened over the weekend while hospitalized, though the Norwegian palace said Sunday the 89-year-old monarch remains in stable condition.
  • A bacterial infection in his blood prompted antibiotic treatment; the king is also being treated for haemolytic anaemia, a disorder caused by rapid destruction of red blood cells.
  • Harald was admitted to Oslo University Hospital on Monday for fluid retention linked to Cortisone treatment, placed on two weeks' sick leave and has canceled a Sept. 1-2 visit to Trondelag.
  • Crown Prince Haakon has been serving as regent during his father's absence as close family members visited the king in hospital on Sunday.
  • Harald, Europe's oldest reigning monarch since taking the throne in 1991, has faced repeated health setbacks this year but has said he will not abdicate.

Insights

Will Europe's oldest monarch survive this severe blood infection, or is Norway's royal succession closer than anticipated despite his lifelong oath?
Could the King's worsening health secretly force a permanent regency, testing the absolute limits of his refusal to ever abdicate the throne?
How long can medical experts balance the life-threatening risks of haemolytic anaemia and sepsis before the King's reign is permanently impacted?