Norway's king admitted to hospital and put on sick leave
Norway's King Harald V has been hospitalized for treatment of fluid retention, leading to a two-week sick leave. Crown Prince Haakon has assumed the role of regent during the monarch's recovery.
Why it matters
The health of a long-serving monarch is a significant matter of state for the Norwegian royal household and government.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, King Harald V ascended Norway's throne in January 1991
Norway's King Harald V has been admitted to hospital and is on sick leave for two weeks, the country's royal household announced on Monday.
The 89-year-old, who is one of Europe's longest-serving monarchs, has been treated in recent weeks with cortisone for rare blood condition haemolytic anaemia. It causes the number of red blood cells in the body to be reduced and leads to fatigue and shortness of breath.
The palace said the monarch was admitted due to "fluid retention in the body that requires treatment in hospital".
It added that Crown Prince Haakon, aged 53, will serve as regent while his father is on sick leave.
Image source, NTB / AFP via Getty Images Image caption, Crown Prince Haakon has now taken over his father's royal duties
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