The Project star reveals shock Covid diagnosis: ‘I feel absolutely fine’

The Project host Peter Helliar has explained his recent absence from the show, revealing that he’s tested positive for Covid-19.

The 46-year-old took to Instagram on Friday to share the news and praised the “brilliant” vaccine for his mild symptoms.

“So I was sick of friends saying they didn’t know anyone with Covid. So I went and got Covid (not deliberately of course),” he captioned a selfie giving the thumbs up.

“I am nearing the end of my quarantine and I feel absolutely fine. The worst it got was a mild cold.

“Not because the virus didn’t have bad intentions but because science is brilliant and being fully immunised meant I had a whole bunch of vaxxy goodness protecting me. My family are safe and I am grateful.”

RELATED:

• Lisa Wilkinson reveals personal ‘crisis’ while writing her tell-all memoir

• Channel 10 slams ‘nonsense’ reports about The Project stars’ pay cuts

• The Project's Tommy Little on 'infuriating' his co-stars

Peter went on to say that he will be returning to work next week “for an extremely viral Vednesday”, and added that he now has a “crush” on science.

“Also to all the health workers and services. Luckily I didn’t need to go to hospital but everyone I spoke to on the phone were completely compassionate, professional, caring and incredibly patient,” he continued.

“The system is undoubtedly under a great deal of stress but they are doing a wonderful job.”

A number of Peter’s followers shared their well wishes in the comments of his post, including his Channel Ten co-star Lisa Wilkinson.

“So glad you’re ok Pete. And bravo to all the health care workers for all they have done over the last two years… and beyond,” she wrote.

“Yay for science! Glad you’re ok mate,” The Masked Singer’s Urzila Carlson replied.

“So what do you get the guy who has everything…?” Rove McManus joked.

The Project’s social media account also commented, writing: “See you next week! Don’t forget to bring your Medical Certificate in with you.”

Peter has been a strong supporter for the Covid-19 jab, receiving his first dose back in June, and previously debated with his co-hosts on The Project over who should have the right to mandate vaccines.

“I’m just not comfortable with the idea that it’s companies that should have that call. I think it’s really for the government to do that because they’re accountable to us,” Waleed Aly argued.

Peter Helliar replied: “No I agree with you, I think it should be government but there are some sectors that I think need to be vaccinated, like hospitality. To be honest, if I owned a café, I’d want all my staff vaccinated because they’ve been through a bit.”

Carrie Bickmore also shared her opinion, saying that it might be a good “motivation” if people realise that the vaccination will have an effect on their employment.

Never miss a thing. Sign up to Yahoo Lifestyle’s daily newsletter.

Or if you have a story idea, email us at lifestyle.tips@yahooinc.com.