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'No need to panic' over Mandela's health

28 January 2011

The South African government has moved to allay fears about Nelson Mandela's health, saying that medically there was no need to panic, after the 92-year-old senior statesman was admitted to hospital for what have been described as routine tests.

Acting President Kgalema Motlanthe issued a statement late on Thursday night saying that speculation that Mandela's health had seriously deteriorated was unfounded and that he was in high spirits.

"We wish to confirm that Mr Mandela is in Milpark Hospital undergoing a few specialised tests and investigations," Motlanthe said. "Given the medical history of our former president, his health over the last few years and his age, these tests are necessary in order to provide optimal health care."

Motlanthe's comments come as Mandela starts his third day at Johannesburg's Milpark Hospital.

The Nelson Mandela Foundation, which issued a statement on Wednesday afternoon confirming that he had been admitted, issued no further comment on Thursday, leading to speculation that his health had seriously deteriorated.

On Thursday, high-profile government officials, politicians, friends and family members were seen going in and out of the hospital.

According to some media reports, Mandela has been seen by a specialist pulmonologist, who treats respiratory systems. Mandela's respiratory problems date back to when he was on Robben Island, where he suffered from tuberculosis.

"Mandela suffers from ailments common to people of his age, and conditions that have developed over the years," Motlanthe said. "We may recall that he suffered from tuberculosis while on Robben Island and has had previous respiratory infections."

Together with Mandela's doctor and family, Motlanthe was expected to give a media briefing at 12:30 on Friday to update the country on Mandela's health.

The South African National Defence Force is responsible for the medical requirements and care of the country's current and retired presidents. Motlanthe said that he had tasked the Defence Force with ensuring that all necessary support was provided to the former president and his family.

"I can assure all South Africans and the world that Madiba is in good hands," he said.

Source: BuaNews