A spokesman for former President George H.W. Bush said Bush has been admitted to the intensive care unit at Houston's Methodist Hospital to address a respiratory problem from pneumonia.
Spokesman Jim McGrath said Bush's wife, Barbara Bush, also has been hospitalized as a precaution after experiencing fatigue and coughing.
McGrath said the 92-year-old former president was placed under sedation for a procedure to protect and clear his airway. He is stable and resting comfortably. He has been in the hospital since Saturday.
Barbara Bush is 91. The couple marked their 72nd wedding anniversary on Jan. 6.
Bush served as U.S. president from 1989 to 1993. He has a form of Parkinson's disease and uses a motorized scooter or a wheelchair for mobility.
"My doctor says if I sit outside in January, it will likely put me six feet under," the 41st president wrote in the letter, dated Jan. 10. "Same for Barbara. So I guess we're stuck in Texas."
Story: Doctor's warning prompts George H.W. Bush to skip inauguration
Gracious letter from @GeorgeHWBush to @realDonaldTrump wishing the best "as you begin this incredible journey of leading our great country.” pic.twitter.com/haQmmsii2f
— Jonathan Karl (@jonkarl) January 18, 2017
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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