Norway's King Harald V’s health has worsened, the palace says, as he receives antibiotics in Oslo University Hospital for a serious bloodstream bacterial infection.
The 89‑year‑old monarch is staying in hospital and has been on sick leave since last week. His son, Crown Prince Haakon, has taken over as regent and is stepping in for the king’s public duties.
He has also been undergoing treatment for haemolytic anaemia, a rare condition that reduces red blood cells, causing fatigue and shortness of breath.
Earlier this year, the royal household announced that King Harald would reduce his public engagements permanently due to age, and he received a pacemaker after a fall in Malaysia.
Meanwhile, the royal family faces other drama: Crown Princess Mette‑Marit had a lung transplant in June after her own pulmonary fibrosis diagnosis, and her son, Marius Høiby, was recently sentenced to four years in prison for sexual assault, though he plans to appeal.
Additionally, documents revealed that the princess had close ties with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, leading her to publicly apologise for her "poor judgement" and express regret for that relationship.
The palace will keep the public updated on the king’s condition, with the regent continuing to balance royal responsibilities amid these family and health challenges.
