In a shocking health scare that captured the attention of viewers and colleagues alike, Fox News anchor John Roberts was hospitalized in late August 2025 after contracting a severe case of malaria, a mosquito-borne disease rarely seen in the United States. The 70-year-old co-anchor of America Reports revealed the diagnosis on social media, sparking an outpouring of support from fans, fellow journalists, and public figures. Now, as he recovers at home following a grueling six-night hospital stay, Roberts has shared updates on his condition, expressing gratitude for his medical team, family, and supporters while reflecting on the harrowing ordeal. This article delves into the details of Roberts’ diagnosis, his treatment journey, the impact on his career, and the broader implications of malaria in a modern context, drawing on his own words, medical insights, and fan reactions.

The saga began with what Roberts thought was a flu-like illness but quickly escalated into a life-threatening condition, marked by “uncontrolled shivering” during a live broadcast. His candidness about the experience—calling it the “sickest” he’s ever felt—has shed light on the severity of malaria and its unexpected presence in a high-profile figure’s life. As the veteran journalist navigates his recovery, his story serves as a reminder of the fragility of health and the power of resilience, resonating with audiences far beyond the newsroom.

The Onset: A Shocking Diagnosis

John Roberts, a seasoned journalist with a career spanning CNN, CBS News, and Fox News, is no stranger to high-pressure environments. Born in Toronto, Canada, in 1955, he joined Fox News in 2011 as a senior national correspondent and has co-anchored America Reports with Sandra Smith since 2021. Known for his sharp reporting and steady presence, Roberts was in the middle of a typical broadcast on August 25, 2025, when he began experiencing alarming symptoms. “I had been hurting from the top of my head to the tip of my toes. Literally everywhere,” he told People in an interview published August 28. “I was also beset with uncontrolled shivering all during my show.”

Initially, Roberts attributed the body aches and chills to muscle cramps or the flu. “I thought it was just muscle cramps and aches. But when I started shivering, I started to lean toward the flu,” he recalled. The severity escalated, prompting his rheumatologist to urge him to visit the emergency room at Inova Fairfax Hospital in Virginia. Blood tests revealed low platelet and white blood cell counts, alarming indicators that led to a rapid diagnosis: malaria, a parasitic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. “I thought, ‘Of course you have malaria… You never do anything in small measures,’” Roberts quipped to People, masking his fear with humor. “But I was a little scared. Malaria can be deadly if left unchecked.”

Roberts believes he contracted the disease during a July vacation in Indonesia, a tropical region where malaria remains endemic. He told Us Magazine that he began feeling ill about 10 days after returning home, though he doesn’t recall a specific mosquito bite. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), malaria symptoms typically appear 7 to 30 days after infection, including fever, chills, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures, coma, or death, particularly if untreated. Roberts’ case was classified as “severe,” a term he used to describe the intensity of his symptoms: “I don’t know exactly how ‘severe’ it was from a medical classification, but it sure felt severe. I have never felt that sick in my life”.

The Hospitalization: A Battle for Recovery

Roberts was admitted to Inova Fairfax Hospital on August 25, where he became, by his own account, “the only person in the hospital with malaria.” One of his doctors even noted it was the first case they had ever treated, a testament to the rarity of the disease in the U.S., where approximately 2,000 cases are reported annually, nearly all linked to international travel. The diagnosis was confirmed through blood smears identifying the Plasmodium parasite, likely Plasmodium falciparum, the most severe strain, common in Southeast Asia.

Treatment began immediately with intravenous artesunate, a potent antimalarial drug used for severe cases. “I’ve been feeling up and down with treatment,” Roberts told People, describing the grueling process. Artesunate targets the parasite in the bloodstream, but side effects like nausea and fatigue can be debilitating. Roberts’ wife, Kyra Phillips, an ABC News correspondent, played a pivotal role, connecting with global malaria expert Dr. Doug Postels in Malawi for guidance. “Thank you to my beloved wife… who found Dr. Postels, who served as a guiding hand through all of this,” Roberts wrote in an X post on August 30.

His hospital stay lasted five days and six nights, a period he described as transformative. “Malaria is an awful disease that needs to be attacked full-force when a diagnosis is made,” he wrote on X. “I’ve gone from being so sick that any dog would take pity on me to being ready to fire up the grill on Labor Day (well, maybe ready to watch the grill being fired up)”. He praised the Inova Health team, naming nurses Genevieve, Claire, Lauren, Daniel, Yvonne, Anar, and Raysa, who “finally found a good new vein for an IV when all the others said ‘enough’”. Pulmonologist Dr. Matt Williams also earned his gratitude for expert care.

By August 30, Roberts was discharged, planning to return home to his family. “God willing, after 5 days and 6 nights at Inova Fairfax, I hope to be heading back home today,” he shared on X, reflecting on the ordeal’s toll and his relief at surviving. His recovery, however, is ongoing, with follow-up treatments to ensure the parasite is fully eradicated.

The Context: Malaria in the Modern World

Malaria, caused by the Plasmodium parasite and spread through Anopheles mosquito bites, is a global health challenge. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports nearly 290 million cases annually, with over 400,000 deaths, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions like sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia. In the U.S., malaria was eliminated in 1951, but travel-related cases persist, with around 2,000 diagnoses yearly and an average of seven deaths between 2007 and 2022.

Roberts’ case highlights the risks of international travel to endemic areas. Indonesia, where he vacationed, is among the countries with ongoing malaria transmission, particularly in rural regions. The CDC recommends preventive measures like antimalarial prophylaxis (e.g., doxycycline or atovaquone-proguanil) and insect repellent, though it’s unclear if Roberts took such precautions. His experience underscores the disease’s severity, even in healthy individuals. “Malaria can be deadly if left unchecked,” he told People, echoing the CDC’s warning that prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical.

The case also raises broader concerns about climate change’s impact on malaria. A 2023 Gates Foundation report noted that rising temperatures are expanding mosquito habitats, potentially increasing cases in non-endemic areas. In 2020, The New York Times reported that New York City’s climate has shifted to “subtropical,” creating conditions that could support mosquito-borne diseases. While Roberts’ infection was travel-related, the global context adds urgency to his story.

Impact on Career and America Reports

Roberts’ absence from America Reports, which airs weekdays at 1 p.m. ET, was immediately felt. Fox News correspondent Trace Gallagher stepped in to co-anchor with Sandra Smith, earning Roberts’ gratitude. “Thank you to Trace for jumping into the chair today!” he wrote on X on August 26, announcing his diagnosis. Gallagher, a veteran anchor, maintained the show’s rhythm, but fans noticed the void. “Get well soon, John Roberts. You’re missed on air,” tweeted @FoxFan22.

Roberts hoped to return after Labor Day, September 2, but his recovery timeline remains fluid. “The priority is getting well,” he told Us Magazine. Fox News issued a statement supporting him: “John is a vital part of our team, and we’re praying for his full recovery.” His absence has sparked speculation about temporary replacements, with names like Martha MacCallum floated on social media, though no official plans have been announced.

The health scare adds to Roberts’ history of medical challenges. In 2018, he underwent a procedure for a heart condition, which he described as fully resolved. “I’m a tough old bird,” he told HuffPost in 2025, reflecting on his resilience. His openness about these struggles has endeared him to viewers, who see him as more than a polished anchor.

Fan and Industry Reactions

The announcement of Roberts’ diagnosis triggered a wave of support. On X, fans posted messages like, “Recover quickly and fully!!” and “Wow, that’s no joke. Feel better and hope your recovery is smooth and steady”. One user, @NewsJunkie55, wrote, “Get well soon, John. You’re the first person I know of that’s had malaria.” The rarity of his diagnosis in the U.S. amplified the shock, with @PatriotViewer tweeting, “Malaria in 2025? Prayers for John Roberts.”

Colleagues rallied around him. Sandra Smith praised his strength on air, saying, “John’s a fighter, and we can’t wait to have him back.” Fox News’ Peter Doocy, whose father, Steve, recently left the network, tweeted, “Speedy recovery, John. The newsroom’s not the same without you.” Even competitors joined in, with CNN’s Jake Tapper posting, “Wishing you strength, John. You’ve got this.”

The story dominated headlines, with outlets like HuffPost, USA Today, and Yahoo covering the “severe” case. Mediaite highlighted Roberts’ encouraging update, noting his humor and optimism as signs of progress. The coverage underscored his stature in journalism, with The New York Daily News calling him a “veteran anchor” who’s weathered both professional and personal storms.

A Personal Touch: Family and Faith

Roberts’ recovery has been bolstered by his family, particularly his wife, Kyra Phillips, and their 15-year-old twins, Sage and Kellan. Phillips’ proactive role in securing expert advice was crucial, and Roberts’ X post thanked her for her “guiding hand”. The couple, married since 2010, has faced challenges together, including Phillips’ own demanding career. “Kyra’s my rock,” Roberts told People in 2023, a sentiment echoed in his recent gratitude.

Faith also played a role. A devout Christian, Roberts referenced “God willing” in his discharge announcement, reflecting a spiritual anchor. His colleague, Bishop Robert Barron, whose critique of a Minneapolis mayor’s dismissal of prayer made headlines, reportedly sent Roberts a message of support, per Fox News.

Broader Implications: Awareness and Prevention

Roberts’ ordeal has sparked conversations about malaria prevention. The CDC emphasizes pre-travel consultations for antimalarial drugs and protective measures like DEET-based repellents. “Travelers need to be proactive,” Dr. Postels told The Guardian. “Malaria doesn’t discriminate.” Roberts’ high-profile case may prompt greater awareness, especially among frequent travelers.

His story also highlights the importance of swift medical intervention. “If I hadn’t gone to the ER, I might not be here,” he told Us Magazine. The rarity of malaria in the U.S. can delay diagnosis, as symptoms mimic the flu, making his rheumatologist’s quick action critical.

Looking Ahead: A Return to the Anchor Desk

As Roberts recovers at home, he’s optimistic but cautious. “I anticipate getting back in the saddle. Just keep away from these little effers,” he joked to NY Morning Star, referring to mosquitoes. His return to America Reports is eagerly awaited, with fans hopeful for his trademark wit and insight. Fox News has promised updates, and sources suggest he may resume broadcasting by mid-September, depending on medical clearance.

The experience has left a mark. “Malaria is an awful disease,” Roberts wrote, urging vigilance for travelers. His vulnerability—sharing the fear and pain—has deepened his connection with viewers, who see him as a relatable figure, not just a newsroom fixture.

A Story of Resilience

John Roberts’ malaria scare is a stark reminder that health crises can strike unexpectedly, even for those in the public eye. From the chilling moment of “uncontrolled shivering” on air to his triumphant discharge, his journey reflects resilience, supported by family, faith, and a dedicated medical team. As he told People, “I have never felt that sick in my life,” yet his recovery underscores the power of modern medicine and human spirit.

The outpouring of support, from fans to colleagues, reflects Roberts’ impact as a journalist and person. His story, like those of other public figures facing health challenges, resonates with universal themes of vulnerability and hope. As Ginny & Georgia Season 4 looms with its own tales of family and survival, Roberts’ real-life drama serves as a poignant parallel—a testament to the strength found in facing the unexpected.