King Harald V hospitalized with fluid retention, Crown Prince Haakon named regent

King Harald V hospitalized for fluid retention; Crown Prince Haakon appointed regent as Norway monitors the monarch’s recovery and constitutional duties.

King Harald V hospitalized with fluid retention, Crown Prince Haakon named regent
Liberal News
Publish: 18.08.2026
A+
A-

King Harald V hospitalized with fluid retention; Crown Prince Haakon to serve as regent

Norway’s King Harald V, 89, has been admitted to hospital and placed on two weeks of sick leave due to fluid retention that requires treatment, the royal household announced on Monday.

The palace said the king has recently been treated with cortisone for haemolytic anaemia, a rare blood condition that reduces red blood cell counts and causes fatigue and shortness of breath. Officials reported that this treatment and the current fluid retention are the reasons for his hospitalization.

Crown Prince Haakon, 53, will assume the king’s duties as regent during his father’s sick leave, the royal household confirmed.

The palace also noted that in April 2024 the king intended a permanent reduction in public engagements because of his age. Earlier in 2024, the king received a pacemaker after falling ill on holiday in Malaysia, and he was taken to hospital in February on Tenerife with an infection and dehydration. Queen Sonja was likewise admitted in May for examinations and observation related to heart problems, the palace said.

Liberal News Analysis: What Does This Development Mean?

The royal household’s statement specifies the cause of the hospital admission as fluid retention requiring treatment and confirms the temporary transfer of duties to Crown Prince Haakon. The announcement reiterates previously disclosed health measures, including cortisone treatment for haemolytic anaemia and earlier medical interventions in 2024.

Quick Glance: What You Need to Know

  • King Harald V, 89, admitted to hospital for fluid retention and placed on two weeks’ sick leave.
  • King has been treated with cortisone for haemolytic anaemia; fluid retention cited as reason for admission.
  • Crown Prince Haakon, 53, will serve as regent during the king’s sick leave.
, ,
Liberal News
Liberal News
Leave a Comment


Comments - 0 Comment

No comments yet.