Ireland is to spend half a million euros as part of global efforts to control the spread of coronavirus.
The money has been allocated to the World Health Organisation (WHO) which is spearheading the international response.
It will be used to support countries in preparing for and responding to the potentially deadly infection.
Tánaiste Simon Coveney said: “The rapid spread of the coronavirus concerns us all. Ireland sends its deepest sympathies to those who have been affected and salutes the work of the dedicated health service professionals who are assisting those communities most impacted.
“While the virus is currently concentrated in China, the WHO assesses that it may spread further and is a particular concern in regions where health systems could quickly be overwhelmed. It is vital to take early, coordinated action to prevent further spread of the virus.
“The Government is allocating €500,000 to the World Health Organisation to assist its vital work to help control the spread of the coronavirus.”
He added: “We all share the overriding goal of minimizing the impact of this epidemic.”
The outbreak, centered in China, has so far killed more than 490 people, and infected more than 24,000.
The virus has spread to over 20 countries, and following a visit to China by Irishman Dr Mike Ryan who is the executive director of the WHO Health Emergencies Program, the outbreak was declared a public health emergency of international concern.