An individual has left the hospital treating the Duke of Edinburgh for an infection – but was shielded from public view as they got into an ambulance.

It is not known who was transported away from the King Edward VII’s hospital in central London but there was a police presence ensuring the road was clear.

Buckingham Palace declined to comment.

Philip has spent 13 nights being treated for an infection – his longest stay in hospital. In June 2013, he spent 11 days in hospital after surgery on his abdomen.

The duke, who is three months away from his 100th birthday, was initially admitted nearly two weeks ago for a few days as a precautionary measure after feeling unwell.

Last Tuesday, the Earl of Wessex said Philip was “a lot better” when it was announced the duke would spend several more days in hospital being treated for the infection.

Edward said his father was “looking forward to getting out” and the family were keeping their “fingers crossed”.