Anthony Fauci is stepping down for the ‘next chapter’ of his career

dr Anthony S. Fauci, the nation’s public health chief who has guided Americans through the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic under ex-President Donald Trump, will step down in December, he announced Monday.

Fauci, 81, has headed the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) since 1984. He entered government service in 1968 and at the age of 27 joined the NIH, the parent organization of NIAID. When President Joe Biden took office last year, Fauci signed on as his chief medical adviser.

“It has been the honor of my life to have led NIAID, an extraordinary institution, for so many years and through so many scientific and public health challenges,” Fauci said in an official statement. “I am very proud of our many achievements. I have worked with and learned from countless talented and dedicated people in my own lab, at NIAID, at the NIH and beyond. I express my lasting respect and gratitude to you.”

While Fauci admitted he’s “moving away from my current positions,” he emphasized that he’s “not retiring.”

“After more than 50 years in government service, I plan to pursue the next phase of my career while I still have as much energy and passion for my field,” said Fauci. “I want to use what I’ve learned as NIAID Director to continue advancing science and public health and to inspire and mentor the next generation of scientific leaders as they help prepare the world for future infectious disease threats. “

This breaking news is being updated…