Prince Charles Gives Update on Hospitalized Prince Philip: 'He's Being Looked After Very Well'

Julie Sprankles

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Following his father’s hospitalization, Prince Charles has given a health update on Prince Philip — and it sounds as though his ailing dad is doing alright for the time being. Fans of the royal family grew concerned when, early on Dec. 20, news broke that the 98-year-old Duke of Edinburgh had been hospitalized. But the brief update given by Charles on Monday suggests the hospital stay is just as Buckingham Palace painted it: a “precautionary measure” necessitated by Philip’s advancing age.

According to Hello!, Charles addressed his dad’s health while he was visiting flood-ravaged communities in South Yorkshire. When asked how Philip was faring, Charles reportedly responded, “He’s being looked after very well in hospital. At the moment that’s all we know.” Also during the visit, a member of the public shared her concern with Charles, asking, “Sir, how is your father?” At that point, Charles alluded to the fact that a certain level of medical scrutiny is to be expected at 98. “Alright. When you get to that age, things don’t work so well!” he revealed.

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When reports first began to break about Philip’s hospitalization, the palace was quick to issue a statement emphasizing the situation was non-emergent. “The Duke of Edinburgh traveled from Norfolk this morning to the King Edward VII Hospital in London for observation and treatment in relation to a preexisting condition,” the statement read. “The admission is a precautionary measure, on the advice of His Royal Highness’ doctor.”

At this point, it isn’t known whether Philip will be able to leave the hospital in time to enjoy the Queen’s annual Christmas festivities at Sandringham. However, she seems to be sticking to her typical schedule. On Friday, she took her traditional train ride from Buckingham Palace to Norfolk. On Sunday, she attended church services.

The original reports surrounding Philip’s admittance to the hospital stated he was only expected to remain in the hospital’s care for a few days. So, it stands to reason that he could be released any day now. Here’s hoping that turns out to be sooner rather than later, as the Queen is already down one couple at Sandringham — Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will reportedly enjoy a quiet, low-key holiday with Meghan’s mom, Doria Ragland.

Regardless of where he winds up on Christmas, best wishes for improved health go out to the Duke of Edinburgh.

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