Statement by the Surgeon-General of the South African National Defence Force: Lieutenant General Vejay Ramlakan on the health of former President Mandela

28 Jan 2011

There has been mounting concern about the health of our former President, Dr N Mandela. We wish to confirm that Dr Mandela was admitted to Milpark Hospital earlier this week and underwent a few specialised investigations. 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 healthcare to him.

These tests have been carried out at various facilities over the years and are a normal part of his medical regimen. Such tests are considered routine for a patient of his profile.

While the South African Military Health Service provides a highly specialised medical service to current and former Presidents, this is always done in consultation with other specialists, not only in the government sector, but also in the private sector.

At present Dr Mandela is in high spirits and has been visited by his family and friends. Medically, at present, there is no need to panic.

Dr Mandela suffers from diseases common to people of his age as well as conditions that have developed over the years for which he receives chronic medication. He recently developed an acute respiratory tract infection for which he received treatment and has responded very well. He is stable but will be monitored closely.

We may recall that he suffered from tuberculosis whilst on Robben Island and has previous respiratory infections. He is also not as mobile as before and over the last few years had to be assisted with movement. Despite all of this, his amazing positive attitude allows him to cope with the difficulties of old age with the greatest of graces.

At this stage the medical panel is satisfied with his recovery and he will be discharged to receive home-based care at his house.

I would like to emphasise the appeal from the Deputy President to all to not allow wild irresponsible speculation and rumour mongering.

In the immediate future we will, if need be, issue a regular bulletin updating all. At the same time we ask members of the media and all concerned to respect the rights of Dr Mandela and his family to privacy, doctor-patient confidentiality, dignity and the need to nurse patients in an environment that promotes maximal healing.

All patients deserve no less.

On behalf of the SA National Defence Force I would like to thank and acknowledge the following institutions and people:

• The Netcare facilities and personnel for the professional way in which they have managed the situation.
• Dr R Friedland
• Dr M Plit who treated Dr Mandela for close to 20 years.
• Dr P Williams
• Dr J Slabbert
• Professor P Manga.

I thank you.

Statement issued by the Department of Defence, January 28 2011

Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter