Norway's King Harald V was admitted to hospital on August 17 and placed on sick leave for two weeks to treat haemolytic anaemia, a rare blood disorder causing rapid destruction of red blood cells, fatigue, and shortness of breath [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. The royal household said the King required hospital care due to fluid retention caused by weeks of cortisone treatment for the condition [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. "King Harald has been admitted due to 'fluid retention in the body that requires treatment in hospital'," the Norwegian royal household said [1].
Crown Prince Haakon, aged 53, will serve as regent during the King’s medical leave [1, 3]. King Harald V ascended the Norwegian throne in January 1991 and is one of Europe’s longest-serving monarchs [1, 3, 4, 5]. Despite his health challenges, the King has publicly stated he will not abdicate his responsibilities [1, 3].
The King’s health has been fragile in recent years. In 2024, he was fitted with a pacemaker after falling ill during a holiday in Malaysia [1]. He was also hospitalized in February 2024 in Tenerife for infection and dehydration [1]. From April 2024, the palace announced he would permanently reduce public engagements due to age and ongoing health issues [1, 2, 4, 5].
Queen Sonja was hospitalized in May 2026 for heart examinations, reflecting health concerns within the royal family [1]. The announcement of King Harald’s current illness arrives amid controversies involving other royal members, including Crown Princess Mette-Marit's admissions and legal issues relating to her son [1]. Crown Princess Mette-Marit said, "It is incredibly important for me to take responsibility for not checking his background more carefully" in reference to recent family matters [1].
King Harald, now 89, has faced several health challenges but remains resolute in his monarch duties [1, 3]. His two-week hospital stay will focus on managing haemolytic anaemia symptoms and stabilizing his condition. Crown Prince Haakon will oversee royal duties during this period [1, 3].
