The coronavirus pandemic didn’t only cause panic, but it has claimed thousands of lives all around the world. That being said, world leaders have implemented certain rules such as social distancing and nationwide lockdown in an attempt to stop the spread of COVID-19. The rule should be strictly followed until it is lifted.
Just like everyone else in the UK and most parts of the world, the Royal family is also practicing the implemented lockdown. And because of that, Queen Elizabeth will, reportedly, be hosting Zoom calls for the Royal family as she celebrates her 94th birthday today, April 21.
Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip are isolating in the Windsor Castle and Her Majesty is expected to connect with the rest of the members of the royal family online. However, a spokesperson for Buckingham Palace didn’t confirm nor deny if a Zoom call would take place, but noted that if there will be calls made on the Queen’s special day, it “would remain private.”
And since Queen Elizabeth will remain at Windsor Castle for the foreseeable future, she will not be seen in public during her special day, and possibly not even in June when her birthday celebrations usually take place.
This will be the first time in Queen Elizabeth’s 68-year reign that there will be no customary salute on her birthday. Her Majesty canceled the traditional gun salutes due to the coronavirus crisis.
“Her Majesty was keen that no special measures were put in place to allow gun salutes as she did not feel it appropriate in the current circumstances,” a spokesman for Buckingham Palace said.
Meanwhile, Prince Philip, who retired from his royal duties in 2017, issued a rare statement on Monday to thank medical workers and scientists during the coronavirus outbreak.
"As we approach World Immunisation Week, I wanted to recognize the vital and urgent work being done by so many to tackle the pandemic; by those in the medical and scientific professions, at universities and research institutions, all united in working to protect us from COVID-19,” he said. “On behalf of those of us who remain safe and at home, I also wanted to thank all key workers who ensure the infrastructure of our life continues; the staff and volunteers working in food production and distribution, those keeping postal and delivery services going, and those ensuring the rubbish continues to be collected."
Earlier this month, Queen Elizabeth thanked frontline NHS staff, care workers, and people who have been helping out during the global health crisis in a televised speech. Her Majesty’s message was not just to rally against the coronavirus pandemic, but also to give hope for the people.
