Longtime Fox News anchor John Roberts is currently fighting one of the deadliest mosquito-borne diseases in the world — malaria.
The 68-year-old revealed to PEOPLE Magazine that the illness hit him suddenly and hard. “I had been hurting from the top of my head to the tip of my toes. I was also beset with uncontrolled shivering all during my show,” Roberts said. “I have never felt that sick in my life.”
Doctors confirmed the diagnosis after Roberts’ blood work showed low platelets and white blood cell counts. He was immediately sent to the ER where he received IV artesunate, a treatment used for severe malaria in the United States.
Roberts believes he contracted the disease during a two-week vacation in Indonesia earlier this month. The symptoms appeared about ten days after his return. Malaria, most common in tropical regions, can cause fevers, chills, body aches, nausea, and, in severe cases, organ failure if left untreated.
“Yesterday was a down day. I felt horrible all day,” he admitted, adding that he has been experiencing “wild swings in temperature every hour.”
Despite the health scare, Roberts is expected to return to Fox News on September 2. In the meantime, Trace Gallagher has been filling in on America Reports.
Roberts thanked the medical staff who treated him, noting he was told he’s the first case of malaria many of them had ever seen.
“I can honestly say that I am the only person in the hospital with Malaria. Thanks to the folks at Inova Health for their expertise and compassion,” Roberts wrote on social media.
Malaria affects over 240 million people worldwide each year and remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Roberts’ story serves as a stark reminder of the risks travelers face in regions where the disease is endemic.
Prayers and Well Wishes
Supporters and colleagues have flooded social media with messages of encouragement for Roberts’ full recovery. Medical experts also weighed in, stressing that swift treatment is crucial — and in Roberts’ case, lifesaving.
We’ll continue to follow this story as John Roberts recovers and prepares to return to work.