Leo Varadkar has announced that St Patrick's Day events are not being cancelled, but the situation is being monitored up to the day itself.
The Taoiseach has urged people not to cancel events or close institutions of their own will.
He said: “We are asking people not to act unilaterally, whether that’s school principals, or creche owners, business owners or event organisers.
“We’re asking people not to act unilaterally because that causes problems in itself.
“We have to act in concert and if the response needs to be escalated, we should escalate it all together.
“In terms of events, and detailed guidance is being issued today on events and mass gatherings, we’re not recommending at this stage that any major events be cancelled, but that of course will be kept under review."
The Fine Gael leader gave some tips for everyone to follow to prevent the spread of the deadly virus, such as washing your hands regularly.
He added: "“Soap and warm water is enough, it doesn’t need to be hand sanitiser, wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water.
“And if you sneeze or cough, do so into your elbow or into a tissue which you then dispose of afterwards.”
Mr Varadkar also said the Defence Forces stand ready to assist if the situation is escalated and their help is required.
Recently retired Members may also be called back into service.
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