Alexandra Breckenridge, who plays Mel Monroe on Netflix’s hit drama Virgin River, has revealed that she has been diagnosed with Covid-19 for a fourth time on social media
Virgin River star Alexandra Breckenridge has revealed she’s battling Covid-19 for the fourth time, sharing her struggles on Instagram Stories.
The beloved actress from the hit Netflix show appeared visibly upset as she described a new symptom that’s hit her this time around, something she hadn’t experienced with her previous bouts with the virus.
Despite her health woes, fans can breathe a sigh of relief as the production of Virgin River season six, which wrapped up in June, is unlikely to be hampered by her recent diagnosis, with new episodes slated for release in 2025.
She also expressed her fears about not shaking off some of the nastier side effects of the virus, having researched its long-term impacts.
“It’s finally happened to me,” she said, grappling with a sore throat in her latest update to followers.
Breckenridge recalled not contracting the virus during its first year, finding it “crazy” that she was back at work by August 2020.
“However, this is my fourth time having it,” she stated, clearly frustrated by the recurring illness.
“It’s not so bad. I mean, I had a rough night. I had very intense sinus pressure and pain.”
“So, I’m on some strong painkiller right now because it was so horrific.
In a worrisome turn, she disclosed the most alarming aspect of her current battle with Covid: “I’ve just realised that I’ve lost my sense of smell.
“That has never happened before and I’m really bummed about it. I hope it comes back.
“Apparently some people it doesn’t. And I love to smell, I love cooking and smelling my food. So, I’m just really sad.”
A 2023 study revealed that nearly 60 percent of Americans who caught Covid in 2021 experienced a loss of smell, with about a quarter never fully recovering.
Viewers can look forward to brand new episodes of Virgin River, set to launch sometime in 2025, following post-production after filming from February to June.
