Queen Camilla Reveals Pneumonia Battle During State Visit
Queen Camilla, the wife of King Charles III, has disclosed that she recently battled pneumonia, shedding light on a health crisis that the royal family had initially downplayed.
While Buckingham Palace had previously described Camilla’s illness as a "nasty bug" or a "lingering chest infection," the Queen herself revealed the true nature of her ailment during a conversation with the Amir of Qatar, who is currently on a state visit to London.
"(The queen) has chosen to clarify with some attendees that the specific viral chest infection she had was a form of pneumonia. She has recovered well but continues to experience episodic symptoms of post-viral fatigue," an official palace source said.
Camilla’s diagnosis adds new complexity to her recent health struggles, which began following a grueling trip to Australasia. The Queen subsequently slowed down her public appearances, most notably missing the Remembrance Sunday ceremonies in November, an event honoring veterans of World War I.
While she is participating in the ongoing state visit with Qatar, Camilla is taking a more reduced role, refraining from prolonged standing and attending only select events. This contrasts with the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, who is largely fulfilling the usual royal schedule.
Pneumonia, an infection causing inflammation in the lungs’ air sacs, can range in severity from mild to life-threatening. While Camilla is said to have recovered well, her experience highlights the vulnerability of even the most prominent figures to potentially serious illnesses.
The Queen’s candidness about her diagnosis comes after weeks of careful maneuvering by the palace to minimize public concern about her health.
The news comes as the royal family continues to navigate a period of transition following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II last September. Charles and Camilla’s health remains a matter of public concern, underscoring the sensitivity surrounding their well-being.
