Michael Jackson is suffering from a flesh-eating virus following plastic surgery, it was claimed today.

Undercover: Jackson at clinic

The Thriller and Beat It singer is said to be suffering from an MRSA-type infection that has spread through his body after cosmetic work on his nose.

He has been receiving antibiotics through a drip as doctors battle to treat the superbug, but they have warned it could eventually eat away parts of his skin.

Jackson, 50, was yesterday pictured leaving a clinic in Beverly Hills where he is being regularly treated.

Wearing a face mask, surgical hat and dark glasses, his skin appeared painfully inflamed with purple blotches and his cheek looked swollen.

A source said: "The infection has spread throughout Michael's face and body and is being aggressively treated by doctors.

There's a chance it could turn into a f lesh-eating disorder where it begins to kill off his skin so he's being carefully monitored."

Most people have MRSA and similar bugs in their nasal cavities, which is harmless on the skin. But when it enters a wound it prevents healing and ravages the flesh.

Leading US cosmetic surgeon Dr Anthony Youn said: "It is particularly worrying if it is on the face."