Apple CEO Steve Jobs is taking a leave of absence, according to a media advisory posted to the company’s Web site on Monday.

[ad#Google Adsense 300×250 in story]”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,” reads the statement.

“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.”

Jobs last stepped aside in 2009 went he underwent a liver transplant.

Cook, Apple’s COO since 2007, previously took over for Jobs when he underwent treatment for pancreatic cancer and later during Jobs’ recuperation from his liver transplant surgery.

Cook was hired by Jobs in 1998 as senior vice president of worldwide operations. Prior to Apple, Cook worked in senior roles at Compaq, Intelligent Electronics and IBM.

Updated 7:52 AM with details on Tim Cook.