'No immediate timeline' for George H.W. Bush's release from hospital

Though former President George H.W. Bush has been moved out of intensive care, he remains hospitalized as he battles an infection that has kept him in a Houston-area facility since late November.

"President Bush's recovery is continuing at The Methodist Hospital, where in recent days he has taken great pride watching big football wins by Texas A&M and the Houston Texans," the Bush family said in a statement. "While no immediate timeline has been set for the President's discharge, the Bushes wish to thank everyone for their many kind messages."

Bush had been fighting a persistent fever over the holidays that forced doctors to move him into the ICU, but his condition appears to be improving.

In a statement released Dec. 28, Bush family spokesman Jim McGrath described the former president as "alert and, as always, in good spirits."

"His exchanges with doctors and nurses now include singing," McGrath said.

In a statement the day prior — as concern over the former president had reached a fevered pitch — Bush chief of staff Jean Becker told well-wishers to "put the harps back in the closet."

"Is he sick? Yes. Does he plan on going anywhere soon? No. He has every intention of staying put," Becker said.

This posted has been updated.

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