Randal McCloy Jr, who had been in a coma since his January 4 rescue, is able to respond to simple commands and follow movements with his eyes, said Dr Larry Roberts at Ruby Memorial Hospital. He also is able to chew and swallow soft foods.
Mr McCloy, 26, of Simpson, may have suffered brain damage from the carbon monoxide exposure in the mine, but the extent of any damage is not yet known. He has developed a slight fever but remains in fair condition.
Dr Roberts said Mr McCloy continued to show slight neurological improvement each day.
Mr McCloy survived the January 2 blast at the Sago mine and more than 41 hours of exposure to deadly carbon monoxide. The cause of the accident is still being investigated.