The cases are unrelated and it is believed that both people recently returned to Ireland from abroad.

A man and a woman have contracted the disease but are set to make a full recovery, according to the HSE.

A spokeswoman told the Irish Sun: “The HSE was informed today of two unrelated cases of Zika virus infection in two adults who are currently well and fully recovered.

“Both individuals have a history of travel to a Zika-affected country.

“These are the first cases of Zika virus infection confirmed in Ireland.

“Neither case is at risk of pregnancy.

“The finding of Zika cases in Ireland is not an unexpected event as many other European countries have reported cases as a result of travel to affected areas.

“Currently, outbreaks of Zika virus are occurring in some countries in South and Central America, the Caribbean and the Pacific Islands.

“The Zika virus is a mosquito–borne infection, which isn’t harmful in most cases, However, it may be harmful for pregnancies, as it’s been potentially linked to birth defects, specifically, abnormally small heads (microcephaly).

“Infection when it occurs usually results in a mild illness that typically lasts between 2 to 7 days. The majority of people who become infected by Zika virus have no symptoms. Zika virus is spread through the bite of a mosquito that is in certain countries but which is not present in Ireland.”

The HSE also warned people of the dangers associated with the disease, after it emerged the virus can also be transmitted sexually.

The spokeswoman added: “While almost all cases of Zika virus are acquired via mosquito bites, one case of sexual transmission of Zika virus has been reported internationally, however the risk of sexual transmission of Zika virus is thought to be extremely low.

“If you become ill within two weeks after your return to Ireland from an affected area, you should contact your doctor for assessment and let him/her know of your recent travel history to an affected area.”

The World Health Organisation says the virus could infect as many as four million people in the Americas.

The WHO declared Zika to be an international public health emergency on Monday.

The WHO has said for the vast majority of people who contract the virus, it will lead to mild symptoms. However, the concern arises regarding its potential threat to pregnant women.

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