Madonna says 'my focus is health' after infection scare

Madonna has said she is "on the road to recovery" in her first statement since a bacterial infection left her in a hospital's intensive care unit.

On social media, the singer said "my focus now is my health" and thanked her fans for their "positive energy".

The star, 64, said: "I assure you, I'll be back with you as soon as I can!"

The pop star said her current plan was to reschedule her forthcoming North American concerts and begin her Celebration Tour in the UK in October.

In the statement, she wrote: "Thank you for your positive energy, prayers and words of healing and encouragement. I have felt your love.

"I'm on the road to recovery and incredibly grateful for all the blessings in my life.

"My first thought when I woke up in the hospital was my children.

"My second thought was that I did not want to disappoint anyone who bought tickets for my tour. I also didn't want to let down the people who worked tirelessly with me over the last few months to create my show. I hate to disappoint anyone.

"My focus now is my health and getting stronger and I assure you, I'll be back with you as soon as I can!

"The current plan is to reschedule the North American leg of the tour and to begin in October in Europe."

She finished by saying: "I couldn't be more grateful for your care and support."