Fauci, the top U.S. infectious disease official who has been the go-to expert during the pandemic under Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden says he’s leaving his government post after 54 years of public service

Fauci was praised by many for his efforts during the COVID 19 pandemic.

He is stepping down from his post as chief medical adviser to Biden and director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, which he lead since 1984.

Fauci has advised seven U.S. Presidents, and has focused his work on the infectious diseases: HIV/Aids, Ebola, Zika, Monkeypox and COVID-19.

During the Covid-19 pandemic he was criticised by former President Donald Trump and others- who objected to precautions like obligatory vaccinations and masking.

He was even threatened.

Following the 2020 election, Biden made Fauci his chief medical adviser.

So why is he leaving?

Speaking to Reuters, the immunologist said “I definitely feel it was worth staying as long as I have. It is unfortunate, but it is a fact of life that we are living in a very, very divisive society right now”.

And that it’s not because of the threats.

Further adding to the Reuters interview, “I don’t like the idea that I have to have armed federal agents with me. That’s not a happy feeling. It’s reality. And you’ve got to deal with reality.”

In a statement, the U.S. President Joe Biden said “As he leaves his position in the U.S. Government, I know the American people and the entire world will continue to benefit from Dr. Fauci’s expertise in whatever he does next. The United States of America is stronger, more resilient and healthier because of him.”

He has become one of the most recognised and trusted figures in the world in regards to the pandemic.  

Fauci is leaving his post but he says he will continue his work to inspire a new generation of doctors.