George H.W. Bush, the United States' 41st president, was moved to an Intensive care Unit in Houston, Texas.

The former president, now 88-years-old, has been in the Methodist Hospital since last month on November 23rd, when he was admitted after a series of trips to the hospital for a lingering cough from what was reported as a case of bronchitis. He was put in the Intensive Care Unit after what has been called a “series of setbacks” and a persistent fever. Bush Sr is also now on a liquid diet.

Earlier in the month, it was expected that the former president would be home for Christmas, when a hospital spokesman said the same. But, the spokesman later stated that that Bush Sr should build up his strength before returning home.

It is reported that the 41st president is alert and conversing with hospital staff.

The president had Christmas dinner with family members at the hospital. They had Chinese food.

According to the hospital, his fever, resulting from unknown causes, is being treated with Tylenol while his bronchitis seems to have improved. The doctors say they are cautiously optimistic.

The former president was at one time the youngest WWII Naval Aviator, and was once shot down in the Pacific.

The one-term president, who is the oldest living president, skydived to celebrate his 85th birthday in 2009.