Irish citizens are being advised to "exercise a high degree of caution" when travelling to other EU countries.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has updated its travel advice as a result of the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.
Tánaiste Simon Coveney says it has made the decision based on the "rapidly changing conditions & restrictions across a number of EU countries".
NB TRAVEL ADVICE: In light of rapidly changing conditions & restrictions across a number of EU countries, my Dept is now advising people to exercise “a high degree of caution” before deciding to travel to other EU States. We will continue to update advice. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/5ai8U4SGiH
— Simon Coveney (@simoncoveney) March 13, 2020
Earlier today, officials updated the advice for Irish citizens returning from Italy and Spain - saying they should restrict their movements for two weeks.
Italy has been the European country worst impacted by the outbreak, with the DFA advising people to not travel to the country for any reason.
The World Health Organisation earlier today said Europe has become the 'epicentre' of the COVID-19 pandemic - saying there are now more reported cases and deaths in Europe than the rest of the world combined, apart from China.
Meanwhile, it was confirmed this evening that there have been 20 new cases of the virus detected in the Republic of Ireland.
It brings the total number of cases here to 90 - with 29 other confirmed cases in Northern Ireland.
