Prince Philip Shares Rare Message Praising Key Workers Tackling COVID-19 Pandemic

Amid the ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic, the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, shared a heartfelt message to key workers tackling the deadly virus, in the UK.

Prince Philip has spoken for the first time since the COVID-19 outbreak. The 98-year-old husband of Queen Elizabeth II, who is currently in isolation with his wife, released a statement on Monday.

In a post on the official Instagram page for the royal family, the Duke recognized the upcoming "World Immunization Week," while appreciating workers who have been at the forefront since the pandemic broke.

The Duke listed those in the medical, scientific, and academic profession as being united in the fight against the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Philip also went further to praise critical workers who have been unable to stay at home to keep society going. He wrote:

"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 statement continued with Philip explicitly acknowledging the efforts of staff and volunteers of food production and distribution, as well as postal and delivery services.

Although the Prince officially stepped down from public duties in 2017, he continues to make several public appearances, some of which include the 2018 royal wedding of Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle.

The Duke married Elizabeth on November 20, 1947, and the couple has four children together.

His eldest son and the next in line to the British throne, Prince Charles, had previously been diagnosed with the coronavirus.

In a statement released by the palace following Charles's diagnosis, it was disclosed that the Prince was in good health. It read:

"His symptoms are mild, and [he] is in good spirits."

The Queen and Prince Philip have long left "Buckingham Palace" and are currently self-isolating in their residence at Windsor Castle. This came as a health precaution following the diagnosis of their son.

The Queen's birthday comes up on Tuesday, and for the first time in 68 years, there won't be a traditional royal gun salute done to celebrate the monarch's birthday annually.

The Duke married Elizabeth on November 20, 1947, and the couple has four children together; Prince Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward.

Prince Philip serves as either a patron, president or member of over 780 organizations, out of which he remains the chairman of "The Duke of Edinburgh's Award," which was created for people between the ages of fourteen and twenty-four.