Buckingham Palace Updates on Duke of Edinburgh’s Health

Buckingham Palace provided an update on the health status of the Duke of Edinburgh on Tuesday as he marked his seventh night in the hospital.

The palace revealed that the Duke is showing positive responses to medical treatment for an infection, although his discharge from the hospital is not expected to happen for several more days.

Prince Philip, aged 99, was admitted to the private King Edward VII Hospital in Marylebone, central London, last Tuesday for a brief period of rest and observation after experiencing some health issues.

Despite the admission not being an emergency, he walked into the hospital unaided, but his stay was prolonged over the weekend.

In a concise statement released on Tuesday afternoon, Buckingham Palace confirmed that the Duke of Edinburgh continues to receive medical care for an infection at King Edward VII Hospital.

Although he is comfortable and responding well to treatment, his release from the hospital is anticipated to occur after several more days.

It was clarified that his treatment was unrelated to the coronavirus, as both he and the Queen have already received their first doses of the vaccine.

During a visit to a vaccination center in Norfolk, Prince William, Philip's grandson, reassured the public about his grandfather's health, mentioning that he was doing okay.

Additionally, Prince Edward, the Queen and Prince Philip's youngest son, expressed optimism about his father's recovery, mentioning that he was feeling much better and eagerly looking forward to leaving the hospital.

He humorously acknowledged the frustration of being confined to a hospital room, emphasizing the importance of external support and well-wishes.

Prince Charles, the eldest son of Philip and the Queen, visited his father over the weekend, spending approximately 30 minutes with him at the hospital.

Reports suggest that the visit was prompted by the extended duration of Philip's stay.

Known for his straightforward approach, Philip has a reputation for being a no-fuss individual, with royal author Penny Junor jesting about his potential impatience as a patient.

Reflecting on Charles' visit, Junor speculated about the underlying reasons, hinting at possible family discussions amidst ongoing significant events.

She suggested that Charles might have sought to provide reassurance to his father regarding current family matters, including concerns related to Prince Harry.

Philip, who walked into the hospital unassisted during his non-emergency admission on February 16th, has previously experienced hospital stays for various health issues.

In December 2019, he spent four nights in the hospital before being discharged in time for Christmas.

Similarly, in April 2018, he underwent a planned hip operation that required a nine-day hospital stay.

In June 2013, Philip spent 11 days in the hospital following an exploratory operation on his abdomen, after which he recuperated for two months at Sandringham upon discharge.