Sheinelle Jones revealed on Wednesday, Jan. 15 that she is taking an extended break from the Today show to deal with a family health matter. And while she did not disclose the nature of the issue, a source close to Jones tells PEOPLE the situation is "serious."

Sheinelle Jones, the third-hour co-host of “Today,” revealed on Wednesday that she is taking an extended break from the morning show to handle a family health matter. Now, new details have emerged about her absence. The journalist, 46, did not disclose the nature of the issue, but a source close to Jones told People the situation is “serious.”