Fox News anchor John Roberts, 68, is recovering in the hospital after being diagnosed with a severe case of malaria.
The longtime journalist revealed that he fell ill on Monday, Aug. 25, and experienced intense symptoms that led to an ER visit and eventual hospitalization.
“Never Felt That Sick in My Life”
Roberts said his illness began with aches across his entire body and uncontrollable shivering, which he initially mistook for the flu.
“I had been hurting from the top of my head to the tip of my toes. Literally everywhere. I was also beset with uncontrolled shivering all during my show,” he told PEOPLE.
Blood tests revealed dangerously low platelets and white blood cell counts, prompting his rheumatologist to send him to the ER.
“I don’t know exactly how ‘severe’ it was from a medical classification, but it sure felt severe,” Roberts said. “I have never felt that sick in my life.”
Likely Contracted in Indonesia
Roberts believes he contracted the parasitic disease during a recent two-week vacation in Indonesia. He began experiencing symptoms about 10 days after returning to the U.S.
Though he doesn’t recall being bitten, malaria is commonly spread through infected mosquito bites in tropical and subtropical regions.
In the U.S., about 2,000 malaria cases are diagnosed annually, almost all from travelers returning from abroad.
Treatment and Recovery
Roberts has been treated with IV artesunate, the leading therapy for severe malaria in the U.S. He described the medication as a “big gun” that quickly targets the parasite.
His recovery, however, has been uneven. “I have wild swings in temperature every hour. I’ll be shivering and shaking like a leaf… the next I’ll be sweating,” he said.
Roberts hopes to be discharged soon and return to America Reports on Sept. 2.
Message to Viewers
Roberts thanked colleague Trace Gallagher for filling in alongside Sandra Smith during his absence.
“I somehow came down with a severe case of Malaria,” Roberts posted on X.
“I can honestly say that I am the only person in the hospital with Malaria. In fact, one of my doctors said I’m the first case he has ever seen. Thanks to the folks at @InovaHealth for their expertise and compassion…!”
