Former first lady Barbara Bush in hospital

Former First Lady Barbara Bush has been hospitalized in Texas for a "respiratory related," issue, a short statement said Tuesday.

The office of former president George H.W. Bush said the 88-year-old was taken into hospital on Monday but was in "great spirits."

"Former First Lady Barbara Bush was admitted to Methodist Hospital in Houston's Texas Medical Center yesterday for treatment on a respiratory related issue," the statement said.

"She is in great spirits, has already received visits from her husband and family, and is receiving fantastic care."

No further information was given but several US media reports said the former first lady was admitted after displaying symptoms of pneumonia.

Bush was first lady from 1989 to 1993. She is also the mother of former president George W. Bush, who served between 2001-2009.