Norway’s national broadcaster interrupted its usual programming on Sunday evening to air a special bulletin following the news that King Harald’s health had deteriorated.
NRK1 broadcast the special programme after the Norwegian Royal Court announced that the 89-year-old monarch’s condition had worsened over the weekend.
The Norwegian King’s health has been closely followed across Norway, with the latest development coming just days after he was admitted to hospital in Oslo.
King Harald is currently being treated at Rikshospitalet for a bacterial infection in his blood.
The Norwegian Royal Court confirmed that the King is receiving antibiotics and has responded to the treatment.
His condition is currently described as stable.
However, the Palace confirmed that Harald will remain in hospital and is on sick leave until further notice.
The decision by NRK1 to devote a special nine-minute bulletin to the King’s condition underlines the significance of the news in Norway.
King Harald is one of the country’s most popular public figures and has been on the throne since 1991.
The monarch’s latest health setback comes after he was admitted to Rikshospitalet following concerns about side effects from his treatment for haemolytic anaemia.
Harald had been receiving cortisone for the condition, which causes the body to destroy red blood cells faster than they can be replaced.
Doctors became concerned about fluid retention linked to his treatment, leading to his hospital admission.
The latest announcement represents a change from the more reassuring picture initially given following his admission.
King Harald had been expected to take a period of sick leave before returning to his official duties, but his health has now deteriorated and he will remain away from royal engagements for an undefined period.
His son, Crown Prince Haakon, is continuing to serve as Regent of Norway while his father receives treatment.
Haakon regularly assumes the role when the King is unavailable, but will now continue carrying out the duties of head of state for as long as necessary.
The latest health concerns come during an already difficult period for the Norwegian Royal Family.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit has undergone a lung transplant after her pulmonary fibrosis worsened, while Princess Ingrid Alexandra has chosen to continue her studies in Oslo, allowing her to remain closer to her family.
King Harald has experienced a number of health problems in recent years and has required hospital treatment on several occasions.
Despite the concern prompted by the latest announcement, the Royal Court has stressed that the King is stable and has responded to the antibiotics.
For now, Norway is watching closely as its 89-year-old monarch remains in hospital, with Crown Prince Haakon continuing to carry out his duties as Regent.
