John Roberts, a host of Fox News, will be taking some time away from the news desk as he is battling a "severe" illness.
The 68-year-old broadcaster shared his diagnosis on social media after viewers noticed his absence during his usual 1:00PM "America Reports" time slot on Tuesday, per the Huffington Post.
Roberts expressed surprise at his condition, revealing: “I somehow came down with a severe case of Malaria,” and went on to joke: “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.”
As Roberts focuses on his recovery, his colleague Trace Gallagher has stepped in to fill his seat alongside co-host Sandra Smith.
Roberts took to X (formerly Twitter) to thank Gallagher for stepping in, saying: “Thank you to Trace for jumping into the chair today,” and expressing his gratitude toward the medical team at Inova Health, where he is being treated.
He thanked the healthcare professionals for their "expertise and compassion."
While Roberts' exact cause of contracting malaria remains unclear, the illness itself is transmitted through mosquito bites, often in tropical and subtropical regions.
Malaria, caused by a parasite, is most commonly found in places such as parts of Africa, South Asia, and South America.
In recent years, however, rising temperatures have expanded the range of mosquitoes, creating new opportunities for the disease to spread in areas like the United States, per the Daily Mail.
Although malaria is treatable with prescription medications if caught early, the disease can be fatal without prompt diagnosis and treatment.
It causes flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, and fatigue, typically appearing between seven to 30 days after exposure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that if left untreated, malaria can lead to severe complications like kidney failure, mental confusion, and seizures. The mortality rate for untreated malaria remains high, ranging from 15 to 20 percent.
Coincidentally, earlier this summer, New Jersey health officials reported what may be the first locally acquired case of malaria in the state in 34 years.
The case, involving a resident of Morris County who had not traveled internationally, raised concerns about the potential for locally transmitted malaria.
Although public health experts have emphasized that the overall risk remains low, they have also highlighted the importance of taking precautions, such as using mosquito repellent, to prevent future infections.
Acting New Jersey Health Commissioner Jeff Brown advised residents to be vigilant, noting: “While risk to the general public is low, it's important to take the necessary precautions to prevent locally acquired malaria in New Jersey.”
This recent case highlights the growing awareness that infected mosquitoes could be circulating locally, especially in areas with rising temperatures.