Queen Elizabeth discharged from hospital
2013-03-04 17:19
London - Britain's Queen Elizabeth left hospital on
Monday a day after being admitted with symptoms of gastroenteritis, looking
well and smiling as she walked to a waiting limousine.
The 86-year-old monarch, wearing a red coat and broach,
shook hands with medical staff on the steps of the King Edward VII hospital in
central London before being driven away.
Palace officials said she had first developed symptoms of
the stomach bug on Friday and that the decision to take her to hospital was a
precautionary measure.
All the queen's engagements this week, including a trip
to Italy scheduled for 6 to 7 March, have been cancelled or postponed because
of her illness.
It is unusual for the monarch, who is very diligent in
carrying out her royal duties, to cancel any engagement.
The head of state, who last year celebrated 60 years on
the throne, is known for her robust health. She was last hospitalised in 2003
when she had a knee operation.
