Norwegian King Harald in 'very serious' condition

Norway's King Harald V is in a "very serious" condition after his health deteriorated significantly, the Royal House announced on Thursday, as the 89-year-old monarch receives treatment for hemolytic anemia at Oslo University Hospital.

Hospitalization and family response

The monarch has been hospitalized since Aug. 17 at the Rikshospitalet campus for hemolytic anemia — a condition where red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them — according to Norwegian public broadcaster NRK. Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon canceled their scheduled engagements, while Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Prince Sverre Magnus and Princess Astrid were seen arriving at the hospital.

Medical details and expert concerns

King Harald had received cortisone treatment prior to his admission, but a buildup of fluid required further hospital care, NRK reported. Hemolytic anemia can force the heart to work harder, while bacterial infections and medication side effects may place additional strain on vulnerable patients. Royal commentator Ole-Jorgen Schulsrud-Hansen described the announcement as worrying, noting that the Royal House typically uses measured language. "When they use such strong words, we must take those words for what they are worth," he said.

Reign and succession

King Harald ascended the throne in 1991 following the death of his father King Olav V and is currently Europe's oldest reigning monarch. The Royal House provided no further details about his prognosis or expected duration of hospitalization.