Johannesburg - Former President Nelson Mandela arrived at his home in Houghton, Johannesburg, in an ambulance on Friday afternoon, after being discharged from hospital.
He was discharged after spending two-and-a-half days at the Milpark Hospital for treatment for an acute respiratory infection, according to South African National Defence Force Surgeon General Vejaynand Ramlakan. The elder statesman will now receive home-based care.
Ramlakan said tests on Mandela had been carried out at various facilities over the years and were a normal part of his medical regimen. "Such tests are considered routine for a person of his stature and profile. Dr Mandela suffers from diseases common to the people of his age as well as conditions that have developed over the years for which he receives chronic medication."
"We can confirm that the former president Dr Mandela was admitted at this hospital earlier this week and underwent a few specialised investigations...given Mr Mandela's medical history and his age, these test are necessary in order to provide optimal health for him," Ramlakan said.
Ramlakan further said Mandela had been responding very well to the treatment he had been receiving for the respiratory infection. "He is stable but will be monitored closely. The medical panel is satisfied with his condition." Madiba will not need any assistance with his breathing at home.
The 92-year-old global icon was admitted at Milpark Hospital on Wednesday afternoon for what was described as a "routine check". News of his hospitalisation had sparked renewed concern over his health with political heavy weights streaming in the hospital since Wednesday to wish him a speedy recovery.
Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe assured the nation that Madiba was receiving the best treatment from the best available health professionals in the country, adding that there was no need for anyone to panic.
"The Mandela family, government and Madiba himself would like to convey sincere gratitude for the well wishes and prayers for a speedy recovery," Motlanthe said, adding that he had personally spoken to Madiba in hospital.
