No appointments in the cold

Palace: Queen Camilla had pneumonia

Queen Camilla on her way to lunch with the royals of Qatar at Buckingham Palace on December 3, 2024.(Bild: AP/PA)

According to palace sources, Queen Camilla missed the ceremonial open-air greeting of the Emir of Qatar at Horse Guards Parade on Tuesday because it was too cold for her. Instead, she greeted the state guests at a lunch in Buckingham Palace. 

The 77-year-old has only just recovered from pneumonia, which she contracted at the beginning of November. The palace explained: "The Queen has been suffering from a viral infection which has been diagnosed as pneumonia." 

"Persistent side effects"
It was further clarified: "Her Majesty has not required hospital treatment, but she is suffering from ongoing side effects, most notably extreme fatigue, which requires greater flexibility in her schedule." The Queen's symptoms have been ongoing for several weeks, "but fortunately she is well enough to attend several appointments as part of the State Visit from Qatar and is looking forward to returning to her busy schedule as soon as possible."

Queen Camilla has had pneumonia and has not yet fully recovered, so rest and especially indoor appointments rather than cold weather are the order of the day.(Bild: AP/Jonathan Brady/PA)

King Charles III (76) therefore greeted Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and his wife Sheikha Jawaher at the Horse Guards Parade without his wife, but with Princess Kate and Prince William at his side. For 42-year-old Kate, it was the first important appearance after finishing her chemotherapy. Alongside her husband, she is considered the most important support for the King, who was also diagnosed with cancer this year and is still undergoing treatment.