More than 60 staff working at a hospital in Cork are to self-isolate following a case of the coronavirus Covid-19 at the facility.
The man is currently being treated at Cork University Hospital.
According to health professionals, this is the first case of community transmission of the disease in Ireland.
It indicates that the person has not travelled from any of the areas affected by an outbreak.
Outpatient appointments have been cancelled today (Friday).
Thirteen confirmed cases are in the Republic of Ireland while Northern Ireland has seen three so far.
Anyone who has been in contact with the Cork patient has been notified.
Starbucks meanwhile has put a temporary ban on reusable cups following the outbreak.
The coffee giant said customers would still be entitled to the 25p discount for bringing a reusable cup. However, drinks will be served in paper cups.
Sign of the times, at #CorkUniversityHospital this morning. #COVIDー19 @rtenews pic.twitter.com/lmvWtJrRlj
— Paschal Sheehy (@PaschalSheehy) March 6, 2020