The first two cases of the Zika virus - a virus which is typically transmitted through mosquito bites but can, in some cases, be sexually transmitted - have been confirmed in Ireland.
It is understood that one case involves a male while the other involves an older woman, both of whom have spent time in a Zika-affected country.
According to the World Health Organisation, the virus is "spreading explosively" and has been held responsible for a recent surge in the number of birth defects reported in Central and South America.
Having released a statement last night, the Health Service Executive confirmed that the two cases in Ireland are unrelated, both individuals are understood to have recovered from the virus and confirmation does not come as a surprise when considering the number of cases confirmed in Europe.
"The finding of Zika cases in Ireland is not an unexpected event as many other European countries have reported cases as a result of travel to affected areas," the statement read.
The HSE have advised anyone who has recently travelled to a Zika-affected country to seek medical attention should they become unwell.
