Raising concerns again about his health, 55-year-old CEO Steve Jobs will take a medical leave of absence while remaining involved in “major strategic decisions” for Apple. Yikes.

Jobs announced the decision in the following email to employees:

Team,

At my request, the board of directors has granted me a medical leave of absence so I can focus on my health. I will continue as CEO and be involved in major strategic decisions for the company.

I have asked Tim Cook to be responsible for all of Apple’s day to day operations. I have great confidence that Tim and the rest of the executive management team will do a terrific job executing the exciting plans we have in place for 2011.

I love Apple so much and hope to be back as soon as I can. In the meantime, my family and I would deeply appreciate respect for our privacy.

Steve

The heavily worshipped CEO previously took leave of absences in January and May of 2009 for a liver transplant. He also battled pancreatic cancer in 2004.

Apple shares, for what it's worth, took a slight dip after today's announcement.

[WSJ]