Queen suffers from 'croaky voice' as Covid battle continues
Words by Emma Dooney
The Queen has been forced to cancel two virtual engagements...
She may be one of the hardest-working members of the Royal Family, but when it comes to health, even the Queen has to slow down sometimes.
Her Majesty was forced to cancel two virtual engagements at Windsor Castle on Thursday after it was revealed that she's nursing a hoarse throat – a common coronavirus symptom that would likely limit the 95-year-old's impeccable oratory skills. The Queen tested positive for Covid on Sunday, 20 February, and is reportedly still feeling the effects of the dangerous virus.
Buckingham Palace initially announced that the royal matriarch was exhibiting 'mild cold-like symptoms' but would be continuing 'light duties' from her Berkshire residence while she recovered.
It soon became clear, however, that Her Majesty – who will celebrate her Platinum Jubilee 2022 in June - is in no state to conduct her business as usual. A spokesperson for the Queen confirmed that she had 'decided not to undertake her planned virtual engagements on Tuesday' in light of her fragile condition, choosing instead to focus on filing paperwork from her famous Red Box.
It seems that these 'mild' symptoms have now escalated – so much so that the Queen's vocal cords have even taken a hit. Palace insiders have told the Daily Mail that the monarch's voice sounds a 'little croaky' six days into her self-isolation, implying that she has a long way to go until she's fit enough to resume her stately duties.
Her Majesty has also been described as 'full of cold' – another common ailment of the infection. The worrying update has shed doubt over whether or not the Queen will be well enough to host her annual Diplomatic Reception, which is due to take place at Buckingham Palace next week.
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
Fortunately, it looks like there is hope that the beloved sovereign will be back to normal sooner rather than later. A source has told the Sun that, despite her raspy throat, Her Majesty is quickly 'getting over Covid' and is now 'on the mend'. She also managed to hold her weekly private audience with Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday over the telephone and has rescheduled her canceled meetings, suggesting she has no plans to retire in the near future.
What can we say, she's truly an inspiration.
The leading destination for fashion, beauty, shopping and finger-on-the-pulse views on the latest issues. Marie Claire's travel content helps you delight in discovering new destinations around the globe, offering a unique – and sometimes unchartered – travel experience. From new hotel openings to the destinations tipped to take over our travel calendars, this iconic name has it covered.
-
I never know what to buy my family for Christmas - but these luxurious Hotel Chocolat gifts are guaranteed crowd-pleasers
If you’re looking for gifts crafted with imagination for chocolate lovers, take note
By Jadie Troy-Pryde
-
Why Chappell Roan will 'say something controversial' if she wins a Grammy
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
All the winners from the British Fashion Awards and why they matter
From the history-making model Alex Consani, to the reigning champion designer Jonathan Anderson, we run through all the winners
By Rebecca Jane Hill