There are now 13 confirmed cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in the Republic of Ireland, after seven new cases were reported on Thursday.

According to the Department of Health, four of these cases - males in the east of the country - are related to travel from northern Italy.

Two of the cases - females in the west of the country - are associated with close contact with a confirmed case.

However, the department also confirmed that the first case of community transmission has occurred, affecting a male in the south of the country. This case is associated with Cork University Hospital (CUH) and a risk assessment is underway.

Attempts to trace CUH staff and patients who may have been in contact with the male are ongoing and it is understood that over 60 staff so far have been asked to self-isolate. The hospital has also been closed to visitors and outpatient services have been cancelled.

Meanwhile, Trinity College Dublin (TCD) has also confirmed its first case of the illness. As a result of this, part of its campus has been closed as a precautionary measure, however the rest of the campus remains open and will operate as normal.

Chief medical officer, Dr Tony Holohan reminded the public that most people who become infected with COVID-19 "experience a mild illness and recover", however it can be more severe for some.

"Ireland remains in containment phase with just one case of community transmission. This is, however, a rapidly evolving situation. Public health doctors are working hard to ensure our containment measures are operating effectively.

"This will need a national effort. Every individual needs to be aware of how to protect their own health and the health of others," he said.

The department advises the following protective measures:
-Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
-Maintain at least one metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing/sneezing
-Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
-Practice cough and sneeze hygiene - covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough/sneeze. Then dispose of the tissue immediately.

Covid-19 is spread through close contact with an infected person's body fluids (e.g. droplets from coughing or sneezing), or by touching surfaces that an infected person has coughed or sneezed on.

It can take up to 14 days for symptoms of the virus to show. These may include a cough, shortness of breath, breathing difficulties and fever (high temperature).

COVID-19 can also cause more severe illnesses, including pneumonia and severe breathing difficulties.

Anyone who has been to an affected region (mainland China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Iran and northern Italy) in the last 14 days AND is experiencing symptoms, should self-isolate and call their GP.

Anyone who has been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the last 14 days AND is experiencing symptoms should immediately self-isolate and call their GP.

For more information on COVID-19, click here or here.