Norway's King Harald Stabilizes After Weekend Health Decline
King Harald, 89, was hospitalized for a bacterial blood infection and fluid buildup but is now reported to be in stable condition, with Crown Prince Haakon acting as regent.
Crown Prince Haakon visited his father, King Harald, at Oslo's National Hospital on Monday after the monarch’s condition worsened over the weekend, according to public broadcaster NRK. The 89-year-old king, who has been on sick leave for several weeks, was admitted a week earlier for fluid accumulation linked to hemolytic anemia and is now receiving antibiotics for a bacterial blood infection. The royal palace said his response to treatment has been positive and his condition is stable.
Haakon has been serving as regent during the king’s illness, the palace added. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre sent his wishes, stating that “all of Norway is following and thinking about the king.”
Harald, who ascended the throne in 1991, has experienced several hospitalizations in recent years, including a February stay in Spain for a skin infection.