Europe's oldest monarch admitted to hospital after medical examination

King Harald V of Norway has been admitted to the National Hospital and placed on two weeks' sick leave, the Royal House confirmed.

The 89-year-old monarch was admitted Friday afternoon following a medical examination. The palace said he has been treated with cortisone in recent weeks for hemolytic anemia, a blood disorder, and that the treatment caused fluid accumulation requiring hospital care.

Crown Prince Haakon will serve as Regent during the two-week period. The Royal House said it would provide updates on how the absence affects official engagements.

It is the second hospital visit this month for Europe's oldest reigning monarch. Ten days ago he attended what the palace described as a planned checkup, driving himself to the appointment.

Harald was also hospitalised in February, days after his 89th birthday, while holidaying with Queen Sonja in Tenerife. He spent two days at Hospiten Sur being treated for an infection and dehydration before returning home. In 2024, during a visit to Malaysia, his heart rate dropped to dangerously low levels, prompting a medical emergency. He received a temporary pacemaker there and a permanent one after flying back to Norway.