Legendary drummer Carl Palmer of Asia is battling a severe case of E. coli, forcing the band to cancel tour dates this month.The band were set to launch their 30th Anniversary UK Tour tomorrow but announced yesterday they had to pull out of the tour due to Palmer's health.
The band issued a short statement through their UK press representative Noble PR about the cancellation and Palmer's illness but provided no further details.
It does appear that the tour, featuring the original line-up of Geoff Downes (keyboards), Steve Howe (guitar), Carl Palmer (drums) and John Wetton (Lead Vocal, bass), will be rescheduled and tickets are refundable from the point of purchase.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that "Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria normally live in the intestines of people and animals. Most E. coli are harmless and actually are an important part of a healthy human intestinal tract. However, some E. coli are pathogenic, meaning they can cause illness, either diarrhea or illness outside of the intestinal tract. The types of E. coli that can cause diarrhea can be transmitted through contaminated water or food, or through contact with animals or persons." More information here.
A list of the cancelled dates:
Tavistock The Wharf (Dec 15)
Holmfirth Picturedrome (Dec 16)
Edinburgh Queen's Hall (Dec 17)
Salisbury City Hall (Dec 19)
Birmingham Town Hall (Dec 20)
Manchester Royal Northern College of Music (Dec 21)
London o2 Shepherds Bush Empire (Dec 22)