The Norwegian royal household said on September 5 that the health of King Harald, 89, is deteriorating and is now described as “very serious.” The king has been hospitalized in Oslo since August 17 for treatment of hemolytic anemia.
“The King's health is in a very serious condition,” the royal statement said, without giving further details. In light of the situation, Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon, who is serving as regent while the king is ill, have cancelled all official engagements.
Norwegian media reported that members of the royal family are at the king's bedside. Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon and his wife Mette-Marit were seen arriving at Oslo University Hospital.
King Harald was admitted to hospital for fluid retention caused by cortisone treatment. He is being treated for hemolytic anemia, a condition caused by the abnormally rapid destruction of red blood cells, which leads to fatigue and shortness of breath.
King Harald ascended the throne in 1991 and is the oldest reigning monarch in Europe. In recent years, he has faced multiple health issues, required a pacemaker, and has significantly reduced his official schedule.
Nevertheless, the king has consistently rejected the possibility of abdication, emphasizing that he swore a lifelong oath to the Norwegian parliament upon taking the throne.
