Norwegian king to extend sick leave for two more weeks: Royal House

OSLO -- Norwegian King Harald V will extend his sick leave for two more weeks, the Royal House said in a statement on Thursday.

"The King is undergoing rehabilitation following his hospitalization earlier this winter and still needs more time before returning to his constitutional duties. Therefore, he will be on sick leave for two more weeks until April 22," read the statement.

Harald V, 87, had been suffering from an infection and low heart rate during a private trip to Malaysia in February, requiring hospitalization and medical transportation home.

He went back to Norway on March 5. After his arrival, the king was admitted to a hospital in Oslo for medical examinations.

On March 14, the Royal House said the king was discharged from hospital, but would require sick leave until April 8 for rest and recuperation.

Born on Feb 21, 1937, Harald V acceded to the throne in 1991.