A person has died as a result of the coronavirus in Ireland.
The patient passed away at a hospital in the east of the country on Wednesday, multiple sources have confirmed.
It is understood that the patient was an elderly woman with underlying health issues, and was being treated in hospital in recent days.
Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said: "I would like to extend my condolences to the family and friends of this patient.
"I urge the media and the public to respect their privacy at this difficult time.
"We continue our efforts to interrupt the transmission of this virus. It will take all of us, collectively to succeed. Please continue to follow public health advice."
A total of 34 people in the Republic have been diagnosed with the virus, while a further 18 were confirmed in the north, bringing the total to 52.
It comes after the head of the Irish HSE said the Republic of Ireland is entering "a new phase" of coronavirus.
In a tweet, Paul Reid said: "We are entering a new phase in #Covid19. I fully support our hospitals who have to make decisions on restricting visitors based on clinical risk, patient and public safety.
"Please do as we urge and our ask will increase as we progress."
Mr Reid did not elaborate further on the tweet.
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