ALBAWABA — Norway's royal palace says the 89-year-old King Harald V's condition has deteriorated as the king remains in the hospital, but authorities underline that he is responding to therapy.
Doctors found a bacterial infection in King Harald's blood and he is being given antibiotics, a statement from the palace said.
King Harald of Norway was brought to Oslo University Hospital last Monday suffering from fluid retention, said to be related to corticosteroid medication. Since then he has been on sick leave for two weeks.
King of Norway Suffers Health Problems
Harald has been King of Norway since 1991, making him one of Europe's longest-reigning rulers.
His health has been a growing concern in recent years after a series of medical difficulties. Harald has repeatedly rebuffed suggestions that he could abdicate, despite his age and frequent hospitalizations.
The latest news is anticipated to revive worries over the monarch’s ability to carry out his royal duties, although the palace has stressed that he is responding to treatment.
The pressure on the Royal Family
The king’s hospitalization comes at a challenging time for Norway’s royal family.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit, the wife of Crown Prince Haakon, the heir to the throne, is again under examination for her former association with convicted sex criminal Jeffrey Epstein.
Her son Marius Borg Høiby, however, was sentenced in June to four years in prison after being convicted of rape and scores of other crimes including assault against a previous lover. He has appealed the decision.
Norway’s monarchy is having one of its toughest years in recent memory, with King Harald in hospital and other buzz about the royal household.
