An infectious poultry disease has been identified in two Monaghan flocks.
The Department of Agriculture confirmed to Shannonside Northern Sound News that these are the only known cases of infectious laryngotracheitis, or ILT in the Republic.
A total of 18 flocks in Northern Ireland are affected, with the majority of cases in Tyrone and Armagh.
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ILT is a notifiable disease in Ireland, but not in the UK or EU.
Symptoms include respiratory issues and a loss of production, however many birds make a full recovery and a commercial vaccine is available.
There is no legislative requirement that affected flocks be culled.
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A Department of Agriculture spokesperson said biosecurity is "critical" in halting further outbreaks.
