Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Reportedly Didn’t Bring Archie to London Because of Coronavirus Concerns

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry recently wrapped up what are believed to be their final official public engagements in London as full-time working royals. The traveled from Canada, where they're currently residing. But they left one very important member of the family back in North America: their 10-month-old son, Archie Harrison.

Now we reportedly know the very logical (and relatable) reason. "The decision to leave Archie behind in Canada came not out of petty spite, as reported in some areas, but out of concern for his health during the threat of a global pandemic," the Telegraph's Briony Gordon wrote while discussing Markle's emotional final private meeting with a group of students.

While it's understandable that royal fans were disappointed not to get a glimpse of the little guy, who can fault his parents for being cautious during such uncertain times? Some criticized the Sussexes for not bringing Archie to see his great-grandparents Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, given their advanced age—but it appears they were simply being protective of their child's health during a global health crisis.

Events across the U.K., Canada, and North America are currently being canceled due to the COVID-19 outbreak. It was just reported that the queen's public engagements have been canceled for next week amid growing concerns.

While we might not have seen Archie, Meghan Markle did give some updates on her son while in London. During her International Women's Day appearance, a woman named Geraldine Dear reportedly asked the duchess about Archie. ”She said to me, ‘He’s exactly 10 months today, and he’s started trying to walk.’”

It's been widely reported that one of the reasons the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are stepping away from their full-time royal duties is to provide a different kind of life for their son, so don't expect to see him out in the public often. But perhaps we'll get a new photo on the @SussexRoyal Instagram for his first birthday on May 6—at least we hope so.

Originally Appeared on Glamour