Fidel Castro is well, his niece denies rumors about worsening health

CARACAS, September 3 (Itar-Tass) -- Fidel Castro is alive and sound,
the Cuban leader's niece Mariela told reporters on Friday.
Commenting in Havana on the rumours about alleged worsening of her
uncle's health, she said he was busy with research, without elaborating in
what field the 85-year-old patriarch of Cuban politics conducted research.
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who left the military hospital in
the capital on Friday after the third chemical therapy course, addressed
his supporters and called Castro his "chief doctor".
On Thursday, Chavez said he stayed in contact with the former chairman
of the Cuban State Council. Calling a television studio, he said he
received a message from Castro earlier in the day. Castro encouraged him.
Fidel always wants to know everything about him. He even wondered how many
times he ate during the day. His message was very optimistic, Chavez said.
He conveyed best regards from Castro to Venezuelan people. "Long live
Fidel" Chavez said.