HSE buys 1.7 million masks in preparation for Covid-19

The HSE has bought 1.7 million masks in preparation for the spread of Covid-19.

It has also distributed additional protective equipment for staff to hospitals and GP offices.

HSE CEO Paul Reid said it has already secured a further supply for the future.

Mr Reid told the Irish Examiner: "The aim was to give us an extra supply above and beyond because we are very conscious the market would become volatile so we have secured a significant number of incremental supports to sustain us in a very volatile market.

"However, we have locked down a supply with our suppliers for the future."

Several schools across Ireland have revealed concerns regarding possible infection after returning from tours to infected regions such as Italy.

It comes as a Westmeath teenager has been tested for COVID-19 after arriving home from Italy.

The Castlepollard Community College student had been on a school ski trip to the north of the country.

The individual was tested last night after displaying some symptoms of the infection.

Speaking to Midlands 103, deputy principal James McGrath outlined the information the HSE sought from the school.

"They would have sought information on the route that the student's would have taken from the resort back to the airport in Milan," Mr. McGrath said.

"I can confirm that last night one student has undergone a test. The student in question I believe didn't show all of the symptoms but some."