Supermodel raises awareness of dengue fever

Naomi Campbell has been in Rio de Janeirio,Brazil to raise awareness of dengue fever which is reaching epidemic levels in the city.

However, the supermodel was not allowed to give blood during her visit to a donor centre because she had recently had surgery to have a cyst removed.

Ms Campbell, who has been invited to be a goodwill ambassador for the city of Rio, advised residents how to combat the outbreak. Wearing a Rio against dengue t-shirt she told the crowds "unfortunately I cannot give my blood to Rio, but I will be back, for sure", reported Reuters.

Health officials have reported over 75,000 people have been infected in the state since January and 80 lives have been lost to the disease.

Dengue fever is spread by mosquitos and recently 1,700 members of Brazil's armed forces have been sent into the state to help step up anti-disease efforts.

Xinhau has reported that public health minister Chaiya Sasomsub has warned the public to be alert for dengue fever as nine people have died from the disease during the first quarter of 2008.