Chavez fighting ‘respiratory deficiency’

Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez is being treated for “respiratory deficiency” after complications from a severe lung infection, his government said, pointing to a deepening crisis for the ailing 58-year-old president.

Chavez hasn’t spoken publicly or been seen since his Dec 11 operation in Cuba. The latest report from his government increased speculation he is unlikely to be able to be sworn in for another term as scheduled in less than a week. It was the first time that the government has described the lung infection as “severe,” and the strongest confirmation yet Chavez is having serious trouble breathing after days of rumours about his condition worsening.

“Chavez has faced complications as a result of a severe respiratory infection.