Hillary Clinton Suffers Concussion After Fainting

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has suffered a concussion after fainting while battling a stomach virus.

The virus, which she caught while on a recent visit to Europe, caused her to miss a planned trip to North Africa and the Gulf.

"While suffering from a stomach virus, Secretary Clinton became dehydrated and fainted, sustaining a concussion," the State Department said in a statement.

"She has been recovering at home and will continue to be monitored regularly by her doctors. At their recommendation, she will continue to work from home next week, staying in regular contact with department and other officials.

"She is looking forward to being back in the office soon."

Ms Clinton had been due to publicly testify on Thursday at open hearings in both the House and Senate on the outcome of a State Department investigation into an attack on the Benghazi consulate in which the ambassador and three other Americans died.

The 65-year-old, who is expected to soon leave the position as America's top diplomat, is known for her gruelling travel schedule.

She has visited 112 countries since taking up the position when Barack Obama became President in 2009.

On Wednesday, State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland has said the stomach virus had made Ms Clinton "really very ill".