Dr Krispin Hajkowicz will no longer become Queensland’s next Chief Health Officer.

In a brief statement this afternoon from Health Minister Yvette D’Ath, “personal reasons” were cited for the decision not to take up the role from Dr Jeanette Young.

He was due to take over from Dr Young on Monday.

Dr Peter Aitken will step into the role until a replacement can be found.

Nine News reporter Tim Arvier said it was understood from government sources to be related to a re-occurring health issue.

“It is a shame because he is a man who has a lot of experience in infectious disease and would have been well-suited to leading us though the next phase of the pandemic,” he told Scott Emerson.

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He earlier crossed to Sofie Formica shortly after the announcement was made.

“This is a huge shock,” he said.

He said Dr Hajkowicz was “carefully selected” by the government.

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Image: Nine News 

FULL STATEMENT FROM HEALTH MINISTER YVETTE D’ATH

For personal reasons, Dr Krispin Hajkowicz will no longer be taking up the position of Chief Health Officer.

Deputy CHO Dr Peter Aitken will act in the role until a permanent replacement is appointed.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath said she respected Dr Hajkowicz’ decision and his request for privacy.