A relative of Madonna has revealed that they were "preparing for the worst" after she was rushed to intensive care with a "serious bacterial infection".

Axar.az reports that the pop royalty was found unconscious in New York on Saturday and was taken to the hospital. It is reported that Madonna was intubated for at least one night before having the tube removed. It is thought that she is now alert and recovering.

Madonna, 64, was conducting the final preparations for her Celebration tour, which was due to start next month but is believed to have been postponed following the news of her dash to the hospital.