Fidel Castro dismisses reports that he is dead or near death in an article published on Monday in Cuba's state-run press.
The former Cuban leader accused news agencies and enemies of Cuba of spreading "stupidities" about him. He targeted a report from a Spanish newspaper last week that said he had suffered a massive stroke and was in a vegetative state.
The article in the Communist Party newspaper Granma included photos which Castro wrote were "proof of what liars they are."
Rumors about the 86-year olds health have been swirling in social media in recent weeks.
Fidel Castro ruled Cuba for 49 years before resigning in 2008, citing age and infirmity. His younger brother Raul Castro succeeded him as president.