Norway’s royal household announced that King Harald V has been hospitalized and placed on sick leave for a two-week period. The 89-year-old monarch, one of Europe’s longest-reigning sovereigns, was admitted due to fluid retention requiring hospital treatment. During his absence, Crown Prince Haakon, aged 53, will assume duties as regent.
The king has been receiving cortisone treatment in recent weeks for haemolytic anaemia, a rare blood condition characterized by reduced red blood cell production that causes fatigue and shortness of breath. The royal household previously indicated in April 2024 that the king would reduce his public engagements in consideration of his advanced age. Harald ascended the Norwegian throne in January 1991 and has stated he does not intend to abdicate.
This hospitalization follows other recent health concerns affecting the Norwegian royal family. The king was treated for infection and dehydration during a hospital visit to Tenerife earlier in the year. Additionally, he underwent pacemaker implantation in 2024 after falling ill while on holiday in Malaysia. Queen Sonja was also hospitalized earlier this year for examinations and observation related to heart problems.
The health issues come amid recent challenges for the royal family. In March, Crown Princess Mette-Marit addressed her past contact with Jeffrey Epstein, stating she wished she had not met the late US financier. She acknowledged exchanging emails with Epstein between 2011 and 2014 and staying at his Florida residence. The following month, Marius Borg Høiby, the crown princess’s son from a previous relationship, was convicted of two rape charges and sentenced to four years in prison.
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