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๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ช Belgium /Health & Science

Norwegian King Harald's health deteriorates; family gathers at hospital

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Ongoing story
  • Norwegian King Harald, 89, is experiencing deteriorating health due to complications from anemia and cortisone treatment.
  • The royal family has gathered at the hospital, prompting speculation about the severity of his condition.
  • Doctors suggest preparing for the worst, while citizens gather at the royal palace to show support.

The health of Norway's King Harald V has taken a turn for the worse, with reports from Norwegian media indicating a significant decline. The 89-year-old monarch is currently hospitalized with complications stemming from anemia, a condition exacerbated by his ongoing cortisone treatment. This treatment is for hemolytic anemia, a specific form of blood disorder.

The situation has prompted a family reunion at the hospital, with Crown Prince Haakon, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Prince Sverre Magnus, Queen Sonja, Marius Borg Hรธiby, and Princess Astrid all present. While the royal family has remained tight-lipped about whether the gathering signifies a worsening of the King's condition, medical professionals suggest the signs point towards a serious turn.

Bjรธrn Tore Gjertsen, head of hematology at Haukeland University, expressed concern, stating, "We have followed his medical evolution for a little over a week. Considering his age and medical history, we must accept that this is very serious and that we must prepare for the worst." The gravity of the situation has not gone unnoticed by the public, with many citizens gathering outside the royal palace, laying flowers as a gesture of support and solidarity.

We have followed his medical evolution for a little over a week. Considering his age and medical history, we must accept that this is very serious and that we must prepare for the worst.

โ€” Bjรธrn Tore GjertsenHead of hematology at Haukeland University, commenting on King Harald's condition.
About this summary

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.