OSLO, Norway — Norway’s 89-year-old King Harald V has been released from a Spanish hospital following successful treatment for a leg infection, according to an announcement from the royal palace on Thursday.
The Norwegian royal palace confirmed that Harald, who celebrated his 89th birthday just last weekend, was discharged from the Tenerife hospital during Thursday. Officials stated that the monarch and Queen Sonja plan to continue their private holiday, with no timeline established for their return to Norway.
Harald’s hospitalization began Tuesday, prompting his personal physician, Bjørn Bendz, to fly to Tenerife on Wednesday. According to Bendz, the king received treatment for an infection affecting his leg.
Palace officials reported Thursday that Harald’s condition improved rapidly and he responded favorably to medical care. Bendz plans to stay in Tenerife for several additional days to observe the king’s progress.
This health scare follows a similar incident from two years prior, when the monarch became ill while vacationing with the queen in Malaysia. During that episode, Harald required emergency pacemaker surgery and was transported back to Norway via medical aircraft for a permanent device implantation.
Harald has served as Norway’s king since ascending to the throne in 1991. This latest medical episode occurs during a challenging period for Norway’s royal family.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who is married to heir apparent Crown Prince Haakon, has recently faced renewed questions regarding her past interactions with deceased convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Additionally, Mette-Marit’s son from a prior relationship is currently facing trial in Oslo on several serious charges, including allegations of rape.
