The National Public Health Emergency Team has recommended the wearing of masks for primary school children from third class upwards until the middle of February.
NPHET has recommended that children aged nine and over wear masks on public transport, in shops and in other public settings where the rule currently applies for those aged 13 and over.
Public health experts are advising tthat children avoid certain gatherings for at least the next two weeks, including nativity performances and other similar seasonal events.
They are also calling for a pause on indoor birthday parties, sleepovers and play dates.
However, small numbers could meet outdoors.
NPHET has also recommended the extension of the Covid certificate to all settings where there is a high risk of virus transmission.
[Micheal Lehane, RTE]