Fox News Anchor John Roberts Battles Rare Malaria Case After Indonesia Trip
Something unusual caught the attention of viewers on America Reports — veteran anchor John Roberts suddenly disappeared from his desk, leaving fans and colleagues puzzled. Speculation ran rampant: Was it a planned absence? A secret assignment?
Or a medical emergency? The answer proved far more alarming than anyone expected: Roberts had contracted one of the deadliest mosquito-borne diseases in the world — malaria — in an extraordinarily rare case for the United States.
Sudden Onset and Severe Symptoms
Roberts, 68, revealed to PEOPLE magazine that the illness struck with alarming speed and intensity.
“I was in pain from head to toe and shaking uncontrollably while hosting my show,” he said. “I’ve never felt that sick before.”
Doctors confirmed the diagnosis after blood tests revealed dangerously low platelet and white blood cell counts, prompting an immediate hospitalization. Roberts was administered IV artesunate, the standard treatment for severe malaria in the U.S., marking an unusual case for the Inova Health system, where staff reportedly had never treated malaria before.
The journalist believes he contracted the disease during a recent two-week trip to Indonesia. Symptoms began roughly ten days after returning home, a typical incubation period for Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for the most severe form of malaria.
Malaria, endemic to tropical and subtropical regions, can cause high fevers, chills, body aches, fatigue, and nausea — and in untreated cases, can lead to multi-organ failure. Roberts described enduring “wild temperature swings” every hour, leaving him physically drained and mentally shaken.
Treatment and Recovery
Roberts is expected to return to America Reports by September 2, with Trace Gallagher filling in temporarily. The anchor expressed deep gratitude toward his medical team at Inova Health:
“I can honestly say I’m the only one in the hospital with malaria. I’m thankful for their expertise and compassion,” Roberts shared on social media.
His rapid diagnosis and treatment were critical in preventing a potentially fatal outcome, highlighting how even in countries where malaria is rare, the disease can pose a serious risk to travelers returning from endemic areas.
A Global Health Reminder
Globally, malaria affects more than 240 million people each year and remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Roberts’ case serves as a rare but important reminder that travelers to tropical regions must remain vigilant, using mosquito nets, repellents, and preventive medications when recommended.
Supporters, colleagues, and fans flooded social media with messages of encouragement, praising Roberts for his transparency and resilience during the ordeal. Medical experts underscored the importance of recognizing early symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention, emphasizing that prompt treatment is often lifesaving.
Conclusion
John Roberts’ frightening brush with malaria brings attention to a disease most Americans rarely encounter — until it hits close to home. His experience underscores the importance of prevention, rapid diagnosis, and timely treatment. As Roberts continues his recovery and prepares to return to the anchor desk, his story stands as a cautionary tale for travelers and a testament to the skill and dedication of healthcare professionals facing unfamiliar cases.
Malaria may be rare in the U.S., but Roberts’ case proves that no one is completely immune to its risks — especially when crossing international borders.