A Dublin hospital has been forced to introduce extra security measures after thousands of face masks were stolen as panic over the coronavirus grips the country.
The equipment was taken from St Luke's Hospital in Rathgar last week.
The hospital cares for cancer patients who are particularly vulnerable to contracting COVID-19 due to the treatment they are receiving which weakens immune systems.
Midlands Hospital Group, which oversees St Luke's, said they are in the process of replacing the masks and beefing up security.
A spokesperson said: "St Luke's Hospital, Rathgar has experienced the removal of a portion of the Personal Protective Equipment (PPV).
"St Luke's, Rathgar has PPV equipment available and are restocking supplies and have implemented additional security measures for the secured storage of the equipment.
"This is extremely unfortunate given the vulnerability of the patients who attend these services.
"It is incumbent on all to ensure that our infection and prevention control measures for the most vulnerable are not compromised at any time."
The masks do not prevent the spread of the potentially fatal virus.
It's understood masks have also been taken from at least two other hospitals in the south Dublin area.
One hospital has mad multiple incidents where masks have been taken.
An investigation has been launched and hospital bosses are believed to be reviewing CCTV footage in an attempt to identify the culprits.
