Prince Andrew tests positive for COVID-19

On 02/06/2022, Buckingham Palace confirmed that Prince Andrew, Duke of York, had tested positive for COVID-19 following a routine test, affecting his planned attendance at events marking Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in London. The announcement came at the start of a four-day national celebration honoring the Queen’s 70-year reign. As a result of the positive test, Prince Andrew withdrew from the National Service of Thanksgiving held at St Paul’s Cathedral on 03/06/2022. This service had been the only major public event he was expected to attend during the Jubilee, following his withdrawal from official royal duties in 2019 and the removal of his military roles and patronages earlier in 2022. Buckingham Palace stated that he would follow appropriate health guidance and self-isolate. Prior to his diagnosis, Prince Andrew had already been excluded from appearing on the Buckingham Palace balcony during the Trooping the Colour ceremony on 02/06/2022. That appearance was limited to working members of the Royal Family, a decision confirmed by the Queen in advance of the celebrations. Palace sources also indicated that although Prince Andrew had seen Queen Elizabeth II in the days leading up to his positive test, he had not had contact with her after the diagnosis. The Platinum Jubilee events proceeded as planned, with senior working royals taking part in public ceremonies and engagements. Prince Andrew’s absence from the Service of Thanksgiving meant that he did not make any public appearance during the Jubilee celebrations. #PrinceAndrew #PlatinumJubilee #QueenElizabethII #COVID19 #RoyalFamily #StPaulsCathedral