Norway holds its breath as King Harald’s health deteriorates

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

The Swedish Royal Family is sending its support to King Harald and the Norwegian Royal Family, the health of Norway's King deteriorated while in hospital and his condition is now "very serious."

The 89-year-old monarch was admitted on 17 August to receive treatment for a bacterial infection in his blood.

Crown Prince Haakon, 53, the successor to the Norwegian throne, has been serving as regent while his father is on leave.