Due to a respiratory infection, Harald V, the aging king of Norway, is on sick leave until February 2, the Norwegian palace announced in a terse statement on Wednesday.
The 86-year-old monarch has been hospitalized multiple times in recent months. Unlike his second cousin, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, he has consistently stated that he has no plans to abdicate. He was given intravenous antibiotic treatment after being taken to the hospital in December due to an infection. A fever also sent him to the hospital in August of last year.
Following his hospitalization in October 2020 due to respiratory difficulties, Harald underwent surgery to replace his heart valve. He has been spotted using crutches in the past.
Crown Prince Haakon, the heir apparent, has assumed his father’s responsibilities, according to the royal household.
As Norway’s head of state, Harald performs ceremonial functions and has no actual political authority. He came to the throne in 1991 when his father, King Olav, passed away.
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