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Norway's King Harald's Health Deteriorated Over Weekend, Palace Says

Health10 sourcesAug 24, 2026
ContestedRigor 5110 sources

The Story

Norway's King Harald V's health deteriorated over the weekend, the royal palace announced. The 89-year-old monarch remains in Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, receiving antibiotics for a bacterial infection in his bloodstream. He has responded to treatment, but will remain on sick leave from royal duties until further notice. King Harald was admitted to hospital a week ago and has been on sick leave for several weeks. He is being treated for haemolytic anaemia, a condition that reduces red blood cells and causes fatigue and shortness of breath, with cortisone. This treatment led to fluid accumulation requiring hospitalisation. Crown Prince Haakon, 53, has been serving as regent during his father's absence. The King ascended the throne in 1991 and is Europe's oldest reigning monarch. He has had multiple health issues in recent years, including a pacemaker fitting and a skin infection treated in February. In April 2024, the royal household announced a permanent reduction in his public engagements due to his age. The Norwegian royal family has faced other challenges in 2026, including Crown Princess Mette-Marit's lung transplant in June and her son Marius Borg Høiby's four-year prison sentence for rape convictions. Mette-Marit also faced scrutiny over past contact with Jeffrey Epstein.

The Spread

What they agree on

  • Norway's King Harald V's health deteriorated over the weekend.
  • The King is currently in hospital receiving treatment for a bacterial infection in his blood.
  • He is receiving antibiotics and has responded to the treatment.
  • Crown Prince Haakon is serving as regent in his father's absence.
  • King Harald has a history of health issues, including haemolytic anaemia.

Where they split

  • Some outlets, such as The Washington Post, lead with the most recent health update stating the King is stable now.
  • Other outlets, like Sky News and BBC News, include details about other members of the Norwegian royal family's health challenges and legal issues in 2026.
  • The exact date of admission to Oslo University Hospital is presented differently, with some sources stating 'a week ago' and others specifying 'Monday'.

Source Perspectives

Left3 sources
Center5 sources
Right2 sources