Apple investors seem to be taking the news of CEO Steve Jobs' temporary leave of absence quite seriously, perhaps even too seriously, and its shares are down 5.7 percent in morning trading.

A negative market reaction was expected, but a drop to $80.50 a share from Wednesday's closing price of $85.33 is quite serious, especially considering dire rumours about Jobs' health were already widespread for months.

Throughout his tenure, Jobs was widely regarded as the archetype of the almighty celebrity CEO, and his unexpected temporary leave of absence is seen as a major blow to Apple.

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Jobs to step away temporarily until June