Fox News anchor John Roberts, 68, has been hospitalized after being diagnosed with an advanced case of malaria, a rare but serious illness that left him shaken and in severe pain. The veteran journalist revealed that his first alarming symptoms appeared while he was live on air earlier this week, when he began to shiver uncontrollably during a broadcast segment.
Roberts told People that the experience was unlike anything he had ever endured before. “My whole body hurt—from the top of my head to the tip of my toes,” he said, adding that the intensity of the illness quickly became frightening. Blood tests later confirmed dangerously low platelet and white blood cell counts, prompting doctors to run further evaluations. Ultimately, the tests revealed that he was suffering from malaria, a diagnosis Roberts admitted left him “a little scared.”
Malaria, a parasitic disease transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, is relatively rare in temperate regions like the United States but remains widespread across tropical and subtropical countries. The Mayo Clinic describes it as a potentially life-threatening illness if left untreated, with hallmark symptoms including high fever, chills, body aches, and fatigue. Globally, malaria affects approximately 290 million people every year and causes more than 400,000 deaths, most of them in vulnerable populations.
Roberts shared that his case surprised even his medical team. “One of my doctors said I’m the first case he has ever seen,” he posted on X, underscoring how unusual such a diagnosis is in the U.S. He also acknowledged that the severity of his condition was difficult to classify. “There isn’t really a category for how bad this is,” he explained. “But I can say without hesitation, I’ve never felt that sick in my life.”
The anchor had recently returned from a two-week trip to Indonesia in late July. Roughly 10 days after arriving back home, he began to notice symptoms—initially subtle, but quickly escalating to debilitating chills and full-body pain. According to The Daily Beast, it was only after these symptoms worsened that he sought medical care, leading to his hospitalization and eventual diagnosis.
Roberts is now being treated with intravenous artesunate, the frontline therapy for severe malaria cases. Artesunate, derived from the sweet wormwood plant, is a powerful antimalarial drug that has saved countless lives worldwide. While recovery can take time, Roberts expressed optimism about his prognosis, telling reporters that he hopes to return to work as soon as next week.
A Distinguished Career in Journalism
John Roberts has been a familiar face in American journalism for decades. Born in Toronto, Canada, in 1956, he began his career as a local radio and television reporter before moving to larger network roles. His career path eventually brought him to CBS News, where he served as the network’s White House Correspondent, covering major political developments and international events. He later spent time at CNN, co-anchoring morning and weekend programs before joining Fox News in 2011.
At Fox, Roberts quickly became one of the network’s most visible political reporters. In 2017, he was named Chief White House Correspondent, a position that placed him at the center of national and global headlines throughout the Trump administration. Known for his straightforward delivery and calm presence under pressure, Roberts has built a reputation as one of broadcast journalism’s most experienced and trusted voices.
Currently, Roberts co-anchors America Reports alongside Sandra Smith, covering a broad range of political, social, and breaking news stories. His sudden hospitalization has sparked concern among colleagues, viewers, and fellow journalists, many of whom have sent public well-wishes.
Family and Resilience
Outside of his career, Roberts is married to journalist and broadcaster Kyra Phillips, with whom he shares two children. Friends describe him as a dedicated father and husband, balancing the demanding world of news with a strong commitment to his family.
While the past week has been frightening, Roberts has emphasized gratitude—for the medical professionals treating him, for the support of his family, and for the outpouring of encouragement from viewers. “It’s been overwhelming to see how many people care,” he said. “This experience has been humbling.”
The Bigger Picture
Roberts’s illness highlights the reality that diseases like malaria, though uncommon in the United States, remain a serious global health challenge. Travel to certain regions carries inherent risks, and experts often urge travelers to take preventive measures such as antimalarial medications, mosquito repellents, and protective clothing.
His case also underscores the importance of paying attention to early warning signs. Shivering, body aches, and fever may seem like flu symptoms at first, but in Roberts’s situation, they were the beginning of something far more dangerous. His decision to seek medical attention quickly may have prevented a worse outcome.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, Roberts has made it clear that he is eager to recover and return to his role at Fox News. His team has been covering in his absence, but many viewers have expressed how much they miss his steady presence on-screen.
“I’m focused on getting better and being back with Sandra and the team as soon as I can,” he said, remaining hopeful even while acknowledging the seriousness of his illness.
For a man who has spent his life delivering the news, Roberts’s own health crisis has now become the headline. And while his road to recovery is still unfolding, one thing remains certain: his resilience, professionalism, and dedication to journalism continue to inspire both colleagues and the countless viewers who welcome him into their homes each day.
