Sir Elton John thanks fans for 'avalanche of kindness' after fighting 'potentially deadly' infection

Sir Elton John has thanked fans for their "well wishes" and an "avalanche of kindness" after revealing he is recovering from a "potentially deadly" bacterial infection.

The Goodbye Yellow Brick Road singer spent two nights in intensive care after contracting the infection during his recent tour of South America, forcing him to cancel several shows in the US as he recovers.

In an Instagram post to his 599,000 followers, Sir Elton said he was "getting stronger every day" and was "looking forward to getting back on tour in June".

Five gigs at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace have been shelved. Credit: AP

The 70-year-old became "violently ill" during his flight home from Santiago, Chile, and was immediately admitted to hospital.

Following treatment the star is now recovering at home.

He is still not well enough to travel, however, and has been forced to postpone April and May dates of his Las Vegas tour.

A statement said: "We regret to inform you that due to medical reasons, Elton John is forced to cancel his entire performance schedule for the upcoming April/May run of The Million Dollar Piano at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace.

"Elton is also cancelling his scheduled performance for Bakersfield, California for Saturday May 6."

Dates cancelled at Caesars Palace:

  • April 28

  • April 29

  • May 01

  • May 04

  • May 05