King's health deteriorates, condition is 'very serious'

A royal expert has claimed that King Harald of Norway’s health has deteriorated and his condition is ‘very serious.’

Royal expert Cameron Walker, citing the officials, has tweeted “BREAKING: King Harald of Norway’s health has deteriorated and his condition is “very serious.”

“Crown Prince Haakon (heir apparent) and Queen Sonja have cancelled all their engagements,” he further said.

Meanwhile, AFP also reported the health of Norway's 89-year-old King Harald, hospitalised with a blood disease, has deteriorated and he is in an "extremely serious" condition.

Queen Sonja and 53-year-old Crown Prince Haakon, who is acting as regent during his father's illness, have cancelled all royal engagements, said a palace statement.

Norwegian media said they were at the king's bedside.

Europe's oldest reigning monarch has been in hospital in Oslo since August 17 suffering from haemolytic anaemia, a condition caused by an abnormally rapid destruction of red blood cells which leads to fatigue and shortness of breath.

"His Majesty the King's health condition is extremely serious," the palace said, providing no specific details.

Norwegian media showed images of the queen, Haakon and his wife Mette-Marit arriving at the hospital.

Harald was admitted to Oslo University Hospital due to fluid retention from cortisone treatment he was receiving.

The palace said on Sunday that he was receiving antibiotics for a bacterial infection in his blood and that he had responded to the treatment.