A primary school in Co Offaly has been closed following confirmation of 23 cases of Covid-19.
The HSE has been carrying out a public health risk assessment at Scoil Bhríde in Edenderry over the past two days, and the situation has been described as evolving .
The Department of Public Health Midlands said it is monitoring developments closely and has identified all children and staff who are close contacts of people with Covid-19.
There are over 300 pupils in the school including several classes for children with special needs.
In a letter to parents and guardians, the HSE said the health and safety of all staff and pupils is of the utmost importance.
Urgent appeal issued with Offaly Covid-19 cases still very high
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Offaly currently has one of the highest rates of Covid-19 in comparison to other counties and local councillors issued an urgent appeal to people particularly in the Birr Municipal District to continue their efforts to drive the number of new cases downwards by adhering to public health advice.
Speaking at this month s MD meeting, Cllr John Leahy, an Cathaoirleach of Birr MD, issued the appeal on behalf of all of the councillors after recent figures showed that Offaly, and in particular the Birr MD, continued to have high rates of new Covid-19 cases.