Bob Costas, host of this winter’s installment of the Olympic Games in Sochi, has been struggling with a recent eye infection that has forced the long-time announcer to remove himself from broadcasting temporarily. Matt Lauer has been picked to fill the spot, making this the first time since 1992 that he (Costas) hasn’t been the prime presenter of the events.
And by looking at a recent photo taken during one of his broadcasts, many are sympathizing with him.
The infection, which began in his left eye, has worsened and now spread to his other eye, making many viewers uncomfortable as they watch the Olympic Games, being evidenced through comments on social media. One observer Tweeted this unusual solution to Costas’ problem:
Others have said that they deeply commiserate with the announcer, who has 157 consecutive days as host, commenting, “Hopefully, he’s having it looked at by a competent physician because this kind of infection can be serious. This is a miserable infection to have and I would not wish it on anyone.”
While there’s been a lot of buzz surrounding the appearance of the eye infection, many people are discussing what could have caused it to begin in the first place.
It turns out he has pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, which is an inflammation of the thin membrane that lies between the inner portion of the eyelid and the white part of the eyeball. The condition is actually fairly common and is typically caused through touching or rubbing your own eye with your hands.
And though the infection is rather contagious, pink eye is only transmitted through being exposed directly to the infection by introducing the virus or bacteria from another source.
The treatments for pink eye vary, depending on whether it is a viral or bacterial condition, but since the symptoms are common among both, doctors often treat it through antibiotics. It’s important, however, as Bob is finding out, that you take extra precautions about what and who you touch when you’re in the midst of the infection.
Costas typically wears contacts, but has been seen of late with a pair of horn-rimmed glasses in order to lessen the friction on his eyes. And while it won’t prevent conjunctivitis from occurring, Lasik surgery could have made the transition much easier to cope with.
We hope you feel better soon, Bob.
Update: As of Monday night, Costas has resumed duties as host of the Olympic Games after taking some time off for the condition. Glad to see him back in the Olympic driver’s seat.
