Spokesman: Former President George H.W. Bush In Intensive Care

HOUSTON (CBSNewYork) -- Former President George H.W Bush's condition appears to be worsening.

A spokesman announced Wednesday evening that Bush, 88, was admitted to the intensive care unit at Methodist Hospital in Houston on Sunday.

Spokesman Jim McGrath said Bush was moved to the ICU, "following a series of setbacks, including a persistent fever.''

McGrath said Bush was alert and speaking with medical staff and also added that doctors are cautiously optimistic about his treatment.

No other details about his medical condition were provided.

Earlier Wednesday, McGrath said a fever that initially caused Bush to be admitted to the hospital more than a month ago had gotten worse and that doctors had put him on an all-liquid diet.

"The President is...they don't put you in the ICU because things are going well. So we're obviously hoping that the medicines and the treatments can help him turn things around," McGrath said.

Doctors said Bush has not responded to medication that was supposed to help lower a persistent high fever.

He's been hospitalized since late November fighting a serious case of bronchitis. McGrath said Bush's cough has improved and said the former president was disappointed he was not home for Christmas.

Bush's children have been taking turns visiting him, including his son George, the 43rd president.

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