'EXHAUSTED': Pregnant Meghan pulls out of royal duties

Meghan Markle is absolutely 'exhausted' by her pregnancy and is now taking time out so she can feel better.

The Duchess of Sussex had been due to go on an official royal visit to Zambia with Prince Harry but has bowed out because she's so tired from her pregnancy. 

Royal courtiers are saying it's because the 37-year-old Duchess has been very busy with royal engagements and is feeling the strain - and she is very concerned over Zika virus.

Prince Harry will now complete the two-day tour of the African country alone while his pregnant wife rests up with mum Doria, who is visiting Britain. 

The Duke, 34, left last night and is expected to attend an official reception with Zambian officials later today.

Zika can cause a condition called microcephaly in children in the womb. This causes them to be born with abnormally small skulls. 

An insider told The Sun: 'As far as those on the ground in Zambia were concerned both Meghan and Harry were going. But Meghan is exhausted and, understandably, expressed serious concerns about travelling to a country with even the smallest Zika threat.

This solo trip comes less than a month after Meghan and Harry returned to Britain from their overseas tour of Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga.

During that trip a newly-pregnant Meghan took a couple of days off to rest up after arriving in Sydney and announcing her pregnancy.

Meghan's baby is thought to be due in April, 2019. 

Poor Meghan. Hope she feels better soon.