Hoda Kotb provided an update on Jenna Bush Hager’s health, revealing that her co-host had tested positive for COVID-19, which led to her absence from Wednesday’s episode of “Today with Hoda and Jenna.”
Kotb, 57, explained to viewers that Jenna was missing from the show because she was currently battling COVID-19. However, she reassured everyone that Jenna is on the mend and making progress toward recovery.
Without naming specific individuals, Kotb hinted that other members of Hager’s family had also contracted the virus. Hager shares her life with husband Henry Hager and their three children—daughters Margaret “Mila” Laura and Poppy Louise, along with son Hal—who were apparently affected as well.
“The entire family is dealing with it,” Kotb shared. “They’re all in quarantine right now but should be back to normal in a few days.”
Kotb also mentioned that despite the situation, Jenna remains in good spirits. “I spoke to her earlier; she’s doing really well,” Kotb said. “She’s handling everything calmly and is eager to return soon.”
Although Jenna Bush Hager has not publicly commented on her COVID diagnosis or how it has impacted her family’s health directly, she has continued engaging with fans on Instagram by promoting her latest children’s book titled “The Superpower Sisterhood,” which she co-wrote alongside her sister Barbara Pierce Bush.
Despite this recent health challenge, plans are still in place for Hager to begin an in-person book tour starting next Wednesday, April 20th in Red Bank, New Jersey.
This isn’t the first time a host from the Today Show has had to step away due to COVID-19 concerns. Earlier this year in January, it was Kotb who tested positive for the virus while Jenna kept viewers updated about how she was doing at home. At that time, Hager assured everyone by saying: “Like many others out there right now dealing with this virus—Hoda tested positive too—but I’ve been texting with her today; she’s feeling fine and will be back very soon.”
Just last week marked a special milestone for both hosts as they celebrated three years together as co-hosts of Today’s fourth hour segment. They took a moment through their show’s Twitter account expressing gratitude towards their audience: “Today marks 3️⃣ whole years since we started ‘Hoda & Jenna.’ We’re so thankful for all your support—the laughs we’ve shared together—and those inspiring conversations! Thank YOU!”