Queen Camilla Reveals Pneumonia Diagnosis Doctor Shares Key Warning Signs
Queen Camilla, 77, has shared an update on her health, revealing that a recent illness preventing her from attending several royal engagements was due to a form of pneumonia. During the state visit of Qatar’s Emir and his wife, Camilla informed guests about her diagnosis, prompting her doctors to advise additional rest and caution.
The Queen’s illness first came to light in November when she missed multiple events, including the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance and the Remembrance Day service at the Cenotaph. A palace spokesperson explained at the time, “Her Majesty The Queen is currently unwell with a chest infection, for which her doctors have advised a short period of rest.” The illness followed her official visit to Australia and Samoa last month, according to the Mirror.
Though Camilla no longer has pneumonia, she is still experiencing “lingering post-viral symptoms,” according to a palace statement. As a result, she will avoid outdoor elements of the Qatari state visit to prioritize her recovery.
Amid this news, Dr. Mike Muellner issued a timely warning about pneumonia and how it differs from other seasonal illnesses. Taking to TikTok, Dr. Muellner explained: “A cold or an upper respiratory tract infection is an infection that’s confined to the upper airway. This is the nose, the sinuses, the oropharynx, the larynx.”
He continued, “Contrast this with pneumonia, which implies inflammation of the lungs. Differentiating the two is important because pneumonia is often caused by bacteria and, if so, requires antibiotics.” He added that pneumonia can also be viral or fungal, unlike colds or upper respiratory infections, which are predominantly viral and do not need antibiotics.
Camilla’s condition was reportedly viral, not bacterial, meaning she did not require antibiotics. Doctors have emphasized the importance of rest to fully recover from the illness and prevent any complications. Roya Nikkah, royal editor of The Sunday Times, also shared updates on social media, confirming the Queen’s absence from recent engagements due to her health.
Despite her disappointment, Camilla marked Remembrance events privately at home and expressed hopes of returning to public duties soon. This episode highlights the significance of recognizing symptoms and seeking timely care for conditions like pneumonia, which can mimic other respiratory illnesses but may require more targeted treatment.