Queen has tested positive for COVID-19

The Queen has contracted COVID-19 but is continuing modest duties at Windsor Castle just days after Charles and Camilla both contracted the virus. Buckingham Palace has revealed that the Queen has tested positive for Covid, only days after Charles and Camilla also contracted the infection. The monarch, who is 95 years old, is said to be suffering from mild cold-like symptoms but is scheduled to resume limited responsibilities at Windsor this week.

Mild symptoms

She will continue to get medical care and will adhere to all safety precautions. It comes just two weeks after the Queen celebrated her historic Platinum Jubilee on February 6, marking her 70 years in the reign. According to reports, the Windsor Castle team has diagnosed several cases. In a statement released today, Buckingham Palace said:

Buckingham Palace confirms that The Queen has today tested positive for Covid.

Her Majesty is experiencing mild cold-like symptoms but expects to continue light duties at Windsor over the coming week.

She will continue to receive medical attention and will follow all the appropriate guidelines.

The Queen is said to have received three vaccinations, although she has been on a doctor's order to rest since mid-October when she cancelled a series of engagements and spent a night in hospital for preliminary tests. She is thought to have spent time with Prince Charles on February 8, before he tested positive a few days later when he hosted an investiture at her Windsor Castle house. Clarence House revealed on Monday that the Duchess of Cornwall had tested positive for Covid, adding that she is self-isolating.

Replacement ready

Buckingham Palace has steadfastly refused to say if the Queen has herself contracted the virus, however it is unclear when she first tested positive. The Queen's medics will be on hand to care for and monitor the head of state. Professor Sir Huw Thomas, the head of the Medical Household and Physician to the Queen, is expected to be in charge.

On the eve of her Jubilee, the monarch made her first big public appearance in more than three months on February 5, when she greeted charity workers at Sandringham House and cut a celebratory cake while resting on a walking stick. In case she gets really sick of not being able to carry on her royal duties, a regent will take her place, which would be Prince Charles in this case.