Steve Jobs, the creative and sometimes-confrontational head of Apple, Inc., is taking a medical leave "until the end of June" to look after health issues, the company confirmed today according to numerous media reports.

The text of Mr. Jobs' e-mail to Apple employees, released to the media by the firm, contains these comments:

"I am sure all of you saw my letter last week sharing something very personal with the Apple community. Unfortunately, the curiosity over my personal health continues to be a distraction not only for me and my family, but everyone else at Apple as well. In addition, during the past week I have learned that my health-related issues are more complex than I originally thought.

"In order to take myself out of the limelight and focus on my health, and to allow everyone at Apple to focus on delivering extraordinary products, I have decided to take a medical leave of absence until the end of June.

"I have asked Tim Cook to be responsible for Apple’s day to day operations, and I know he and the rest of the executive management team will do a great job. As CEO, I plan to remain involved in major strategic decisions while I am out. Our board of directors fully supports this plan.

"I look forward to seeing all of you this summer."

One can only wish Mr. Jobs well as he deals with these matters, and I'm certain most Mac fans do.

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