Janice Dean revealed she has been diagnosed with viral meningitis in a major health setback.
The former “Fox & Friends” meteorologist, 56, shared the news Monday on Instagram, telling followers she had stepped back from social media while dealing with the illness. Dean wrote that she had “never been this sick before” and warned that recovery could stretch for months.
“I’ve been taking a bit of a break from social media because I was diagnosed with viral meningitis,” she wrote on Instagram. “I’ve never been this sick before and it could take months to recover.”
Dean expressed gratitude for the support network rallying around her during the difficult period. “Grateful to all the doctors, nurses, teachers (at my kid’s school), neighbors who have helped out, friends who have checked in and my family for taking good care of me,” she continued in the same post. “And all of you who prayed for me, it’s helping. Love to you all.”
The diagnosis comes just months after Dean departed Fox News over another serious health condition. She announced in June that she was leaving “Fox & Friends” after 22 years because her multiple sclerosis had progressed to the point where she could no longer manage the demanding schedule.
Dean was first diagnosed with the autoimmune disease in 2005. In a video message posted to X at the time of her exit, she explained how the early-morning grind had become unsustainable. “For a long time, I was able to handle the early mornings, the many hours on my feet, and the stress of broadcasting live,” she said. “Ultimately, my symptoms progressed to the point that I can no longer continue working in my role, and my doctors agreed that stepping away was necessary for my health.”
She also noted in that message that “getting up at 2:30 in the morning” is hard “especially for someone who has multiple sclerosis.”
Last month, Dean was hospitalized and told fans on Instagram that she had gone in for tests because she had not been feeling well. A week later, she asked for prayers, though she did not specify what was wrong at that time.
Meningitis is an infection and swelling of the fluid and membranes around the brain and spinal cord, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms can include headache, fever and a stiff neck. The condition often needs quick treatment with antibiotics and can be fatal.
Dean has been open about her health struggles in the past. She spoke about living with multiple sclerosis back in 2024, reflecting on how the diagnosis shaped her perspective. “I’m still standing,” she said. “Better than standing. And I sometimes think I’m a better person because of the diagnosis, if that makes any sense.”
She added in that interview, “This made me realize what was important in life, like your health and your family and your support system.”
Following her meningitis announcement, fans and friends flooded the comments with well-wishes. Fox News correspondent Mike Emanuel wrote, “Wishing you a full and speedy recovery, Janice. Take care and God Bless! 🙏🏽.”
Dean has not indicated when she expects to return to regular activity or whether she has plans for future television work.