Two more positive tests for Coronavirus have occurred in the Republic.
The results bring to 21 the total number of people who have the illness there.
The new cases involve a male in a hospital in the south of the country and a female in the east of the country, who has an underlying illness, it is being reported.
It is understood the case in the south is associated with the Bon Secours Hospital in Co Cork, and a risk assessment is currently underway.
Both cases were contracted through community transmission.
Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer with the Department of Health, said: “Ireland remains in containment phase with 21 cases to date, three of which are associated with community transmission.
“Most people who become infected with Covid-19 experience a mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for some
“Every individual needs to be aware of how to protect their own health and the health of others.”
A spokesman for the Bon Secours Hospital in Cork added: “The patient is being cared for in a single room and contact precautions have been in place since the patient’s arrival. To protect patient privacy, we will make no further comment on the case.
“Corona virus response teams have been in place at the Bon Secours Health System for some time, with working groups at each facility and at Group level.
“Bon Secours Health System is working closely too with the HSE and Public Health colleagues. Guidance on protocols to minimise risk to patients and staff are being shared on an ongoing basis.
“Visitor restrictions are in place at all Bon Secours Health System facilities since Friday and are detailed on our website: one visitor per patient, no children, no visitors with symptoms of flu.”
