Official says Chavez has developed an infection while having cancer treatment

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has a respiratory infection after undergoing cancer surgery in Cuba, the government said on Tuesday amid uncertainty and concern over his delicate condition.

Chavez was diagnosed with the respiratory infection on Monday, and he received immediate treatment, Information Minister Ernesto Villegas said in a televised statement.  

"It has been controlled," Villegas said, without elaborating. 

Chavez's doctors have recommended "complete rest in the coming days," Villegas said. 

The infection appeared a week after a six-hour operation that the government has said involved complications.  

Chavez's elder brother, Adan, reportedly was heading to Cuba on Tuesday to visit the president.    

Against the backdrop of Chavez's illness, many Venezuelans are talking about the possibility of a looming transition of power and a new presidential election.   

"We have to ask God for our Commander's health and try to unite in harmony," said Chavez supporter Tyron Guacaran after the minister's announcement. "We need to concentrate on making everything turn out right."   

Before undergoing surgery, Chavez designated Vice President Nicolas Maduro as his chosen successor to take his place if necessary.      

The surgery is Chavez's fourth for cancer since June 2011.


APTN