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Thailand's Princess Bajrakitiyabha Passes Away After Prolonged Illness

Thailand mourns the loss of Princess Bajrakitiyabha, who succumbed to health complications after nearly four years in a coma. The royal household confirmed her passing, highlighting the challenges faced during her medical care. The princess had been hospitalized since late 2022 due to severe heart issues, which worsened over time. This article explores the details surrounding her illness, including the rare mycoplasma infection that contributed to her declining health. Learn more about the implications of such infections and the risks associated with them.
By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 12, 2026, 16:37 IST

Tragic Loss of Princess Bajrakitiyabha


The royal family of Thailand has confirmed the passing of Princess Bajrakitiyabha, who had been in a coma for almost four years. In a statement released on Friday morning, the palace noted that despite the medical team's best efforts to provide intensive care, her health continued to deteriorate. She died at 19:48 local time (12:48 GMT) the previous day at Chulalongkorn Hospital. The princess, who was the eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, was 47 years old. She had been hospitalized since December 2022 due to severe heart issues.


Updates on her condition had been sparse, but in early May, the palace reported that her health had declined further due to multiple organ infections, and doctors struggled to stabilize her erratic heart rate. In April, a stomach infection was identified, which led to intestinal inflammation, causing her blood pressure to drop and her heartbeat to become irregular. Medical equipment was used to support her kidney function and breathing.


The health crisis began in 2022 when she collapsed while exercising her dogs, attributed to a severely irregular heartbeat caused by a mycoplasma infection affecting her heart.


Understanding Mycoplasma Infection


A mycoplasma infection in the heart is a rare but serious complication, often caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these bacteria typically lead to mild respiratory infections but can sometimes result in severe lung infections requiring hospitalization. Maintaining good hygiene is crucial to reduce the spread of M. pneumoniae and other respiratory pathogens.


This infection is more common among young adults and school-aged children, but it can affect individuals of any age. Those living or working in crowded environments are at a higher risk, including:


  • Schools
  • College dormitories
  • Military training centers
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Hospitals


Increased Risk Factors for Mycoplasma Infection


  • Individuals recovering from respiratory illnesses
  • Those with preexisting lung conditions
  • People with weakened immune systems