Prince Harry Now Self-Isolating, Readying U.K. Trip As Prince Philip Still In Hospital
Prince Harry is, reportedly, preparing himself for the inevitable trip back home to the U.K. as his grandfather, Prince Philip is still in the hospital days after his admission on Feb. 16.
Insiders said that the Duke of Sussex has been self-isolating in the home he shares with Meghan Markle in California. Harry is also expected to be tested for COVID-19 in the U.S. before he flies back to London on a private plane.
The source added that Harry has been receiving updates about his grandfather's condition and is concerned for his well-being. He is aware, however, that he might have to fly back on short notice if Philip's health worsens. While there are certain prohibitions in the U.K. for travelers coming from the U.S., the royal family is said to have exceptions for emergency situations.
The Queen's husband, who is 99 years old, was admitted to a London hospital on Tuesday after days of feeling unwell. Buckingham Palace said it is a precautionary measure and Philip was advised by royal doctors that he will need to stay at the hospital for days to be observed and to rest.
A spokesperson for the Palace said that Philip won't likely be discharged from the hospital this weekend and "into the next week." The Palace, however, had specifically stated that the Duke of Edinburgh is not in the hospital due to COVID-19 and he is still "in good spirits" while receiving round-the-clock monitoring from the hospital workers.
Queen Elizabeth, on the other hand, remains isolated in Windsor Castle and has been working the whole week. Members of the royal family do not usually visit family admitted to the hospital because it could be a security nightmare, which might disturb the other patients.
It comes the Queen announced she is saddened by Harry and Meghan's decision not to return as working royals. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex issued a statement Friday to say that they have told their grandmother of their final decision.
Buckingham Palace also released a statement saying that Harry and Meghan will lose their royal patronages and the Duke of Sussex's military roles. Queen Elizabeth, however, reiterated that the pair is still much-loved members of the royal family.
Harry is actually due to come home in June for Philip's 100th birthday and the Queen's trooping the Colour parade. Meghan will stay behind in the U.S. because she is pregnant with their second child. The couple announced the pregnancy on Valentine's Day. (Business Times)