King Harald V of Norway's Health Deteriorates, Remains Hospitalised with Infection

King Harald V of Norway, 87, remains in Rikshospitalet in Oslo, where his condition has deteriorated following a bacterial infection. The Royal Household released a statement confirming the King's health decline on Tuesday.

The monarch was admitted to the hospital on Saturday, 31 August, for treatment of a bacterial infection. Doctors are administering intravenous antibiotics to combat the bloodstream infection.

King Harald V recently returned to Norway after an extended period of illness in Malaysia in February, during which he also received treatment for an infection and underwent a temporary pacemaker implantation. He was subsequently repatriated via a medical evacuation flight, costing the Norwegian state approximately £100,000.

During his current hospitalisation, Crown Prince Haakon is serving as regent, assuming the King's constitutional duties. This is a common arrangement during the King's frequent periods of illness or absence.

The King has faced numerous health issues in recent years, including respiratory problems and heart surgery, leading to concerns about his ongoing capacity to perform his duties. Despite these challenges, King Harald V has consistently ruled out abdication, maintaining his commitment to his royal responsibilities.