Byrd Remains Hospitalized, Won’t Return This Week

Sen. Robert Byrd (D-W.Va.) remains hospitalized with an infection and won’t be back in the Capitol this week, his office said in a statement Monday.

Senator Byrd continues to recover from a staph infection in the hospital.  He is not expected to return to Capitol Hill this week but is in daily contact with his staff.

Senator Byrd very much appreciates all the well wishes he has received from his colleagues on Capitol Hill, his fellow West Virginians, and all those who have sent good wishes from across the country.  He was particularly touched by a hand-made card from the outgoing Senate Page class wishing him a speedy recovery and return to the Senate Chamber, as well as a note from his dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy, which in part stated, ABanish the germs and hurry back!  West Virginia needs you, the Senate needs you, the nation needs you, and so do I.

Byrd, the longest serving member in Senate history, was admitted last month for a fever caused by “a minor infection,” but developed a more serious staph infection during the hospitalization.