Queen Camilla returns to public duties after chest infection

Her Majesty has returned to public duties after falling ill – but with some changes to her schedule under doctors’ orders.

Queen Camilla has been pictured for the first time since withdrawing from a number of public engagements after battling a chest infection.

Her Majesty returned to work this week but her work hours have been scaled back.

The Queen hosted a Booker Prize reception with short-listed authors at Clarence House, although she was there for a shorter period than planned.

“I’m on the mend, these things always take a bit of time to get rid of,” she told guests.

“But hopefully I’m on the mend now.”

The Queen hosted the Booker Prize reception with short-listed authors at Clarence House. Picture: AFP

Queen Camilla said she “was on the mend” after battling a chest infection. Picture: AFP

Camilla appeared in good spirits as she met with guests. Picture: AFP

Queen Camilla, 77, will not join King Charles for the London premiere of Gladiator II on Wednesday local time.

But she is set to attend an earlier reception at Buckingham Palace, although she will leave early.

The Queen had also hoped to join the King for his 76th birthday celebrations on Thursday local time to open a Coronation Food Project but pulled out.

The Queen’s appearance was kept short. Picture: Getty Images

Queen Camilla talks with Yael van der Wouden at Clarence House. Picture: Getty Images

Queen Camilla is following doctors’ orders. Picture: AFP

According to the latest updates from the Palace, the Queen is only following doctors’ guidance to ensure a full recovery from her seasonal chest infection, including missing some royal events.

The Palace has made it clear this is a precautionary measure to ensure a full recovery and to protect others from any potential risk.

Originally published as Queen Camilla returns to public duties after chest infection