Elton John cancels shows after being hospitalized due to rare infection

Elton John, 70, was left in intensive care after being struck down by a 'potentially deadly' bacterial infection he contracted in South America this month and has subsequently cancelled his Las Vegas shows in April and May. According to the statement from his reps, Rogers and Cowan, after his South American tour, John contracted a bacterial infection, and became “violently ill” on his flight home from Chile. He was admitted to the hospital when he returned home to the U.K.. He spent a total of 12 days in hospital, he reportedly spent two nights in intensive care. He was released from the hospital on Saturday, and is now “comfortably resting at home per doctor’s advice.” He is expected to make a full recovery, and is set to resume performing in Twickenham, England, on June 3. The statement released by his representative reads: 'During a recent, successful tour of South America, Elton contracted a harmful and unusual bacterial infection. 'During his return flight home from Santiago, Chile he became violently ill. Upon returning to the UK, Elton's Doctors admitted him to hospital, where he underwent immediate treatment to remove the infection. 'Infections of this nature are rare and potentially deadly. Thankfully, Elton's medical team identified this quickly and treated it successfully. He is expected to make a full and complete recovery.' Elton John added: 'I am so fortunate to have the most incredible and loyal fans and apologize for disappointing them. 'I am extremely grateful to the medical team for their excellence in looking after me so well.'