Australian star Jimmy Barnes has issued a statement after being rushed to hospital

After being hospitalised with pneumonia two weeks ago, Jimmy Barnes has shared another devastating health update.

Taking to Facebook, he shared a statement updating fans on his condition and confirming he will nee open heart surgery after the bacterial infection spread to his heart. 

'Unfortunately I got some bad news late yesterday... despite everyone's best efforts the bacterial infection I've been battling over the last fortnight has apparently now spread to my heart,' he wrote.

'It's infected an otherwise healthy valve that was replaced some years ago due to a congenital defect, so I'll be getting open heart surgery over the next few hours to clear this infection and put in a clean valve.'

Barnes went on to express his frustration and shock at the diagnosis, writing, 'Obviously this is going to take me out of action for a while. I know lots of other people are battling even worse things but it still feel hugely frustrating. Just a few weeks ago I was the fittest I've been in decades!'

'Anyway, as you can hopefully appreciate, this has all happened very suddenly so it's going to take a few days for everyone to figure out what is going to be doable with my upcoming shows.'

He went on to apologise to his fans for 'the inconvenience' his condition will cause. and asked them to remain patient as his 'team works hard to figure things out.'

'A new plan will be announced as soon as possible,' he said.

He then thanked his wife Jane for looking after him during this, 'In the meantime I'd like to thank my darling Jane for her around the clock love and care over the last few weeks in particular - as always I'd be lost without her, I'd also like to thank the doctors and nurse who've been amazing and all the people who have sent me 'get well' messages. You've all lifted my spirits and I'm sincerely grateful,'

Signing off before heading into surgery, Barnes added: 'Given the serious nature of this operation I probably won't be posting again for the new few weeks so all the best to you and yours for the holidays.'

'Here's hoping 2024 is full of much better things! Love from Jimmy,' he concluded.

Get well soon Jimmy!