The king has faced recurring health issues in recent years, and his son Crown Prince Haakon will replace him while he recovers.
ADVERTISEMENTNorway's King Harald V has tested positive for COVID, but has only mild symptoms so far.
In a short statement, the royal household announced, "His Majesty the King has been diagnosed with corona and is on sick leave until he is symptom-free. The king has cold symptoms and remains at home."
King Harald previously tested positive for COVID-19 in March 2022 with mild symptoms. Though officials mentioned that he had received three COVID-19 vaccine shots, it is unclear whether he had received booster shots.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre extended his well wishes for the king's speedy recovery. It was reported that Crown Prince Haakon, Harald's son and the heir to the throne, will temporarily assume his responsibilities.
The elderly monarch, who has been seen using crutches on various occasions, has faced multiple stays in hospital in recent years.
King Harald serves as Norway’s head of state but holds no political authority, as his role is largely ceremonial. He ascended to the throne in 1991 following the passing of his father, King Olav.
The king hasn't let illness hinder him in the past
In August 2022, he spent three days in the hospital with a fever, and in December of the same year, he was readmitted for an infection requiring intravenous antibiotics. In October 2020, King Harald underwent heart valve surgery after being hospitalised for breathing difficulties.
Despite his health issues, he continued to attend significant public events in Norway and neighbouring Nordic countries. In September, he participated in celebrations in Stockholm commemorating the 50th anniversary of Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf’s accession to the throne.
In May, after being discharged from the hospital, the king appeared on the royal castle’s balcony in Oslo to greet the children participating in Norway's Constitution Day festivities.