People News

Michael Jackson has superbug

Feb 12, 2009, 9:05 GMT

The 50-year-old singer reportedly contracted the skin infection - which is resistant to conventional antibiotics - while having surgery to reconstruct his nose.EPA/BARBARA GINDL

Michael Jackson has a potentially "flesh-eating" superbug.

The 50-year-old singer reportedly contracted the skin infection - which is resistant to conventional antibiotics - while having surgery to reconstruct his nose.

A source told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "The infection has spread throughout his face and body and is being aggressively treated by doctors.

"There's a chance it could turn into a flesh-eating disorder where it begins to kill off his skin, so he's being very carefully monitored."

Michael is receiving treatment for the MRSA-like bug via an intravenous drip, and was pictured leaving a clinic with inflamed and blotchy skin partly concealed beneath a surgical mask.

Celebrity plastic surgeon Dr. Anthony Youn said: "It is possible that Mr. Jackson has a staph infection or MRSA.

"In some worse cases surgeons will have to remove the infected tissue if it dies - leaving the patient needing major reconstructive surgery. It is particularly worrying if it's on the face."

In December, author and celebrity commentator Ian Halperin claimed Michael had a potentially fatal lung disease.

However, the singer's spokesman dismissed the claims.

He said: "Mr. Jackson is in fine health and finalising negotiations with a major entertainment company and television network for both a world tour and a series of specials and appearances."