Gardaí are investigating an incident at Blanchardstown Hospital where a healthcare worker was spat at deliberately.
Her alleged attacker has since tested positive for Covid-19.
There have been several reports of people coughing on members of the public and Gardaí while claiming to have the coronavirus in recent days.
People are being asked to report any instances where they have been threatened or intimidated by people deliberately coughing and spitting at them.
Meanwhile Gardaí are to be issued with 'spit hoods' to place over suspects faces during the crisis.
The plastic devices have been criticised by human rights groups in the UK where they are widely deployed.
They cover the entire face of the detainee and stop them spitting at, coughing on or biting officers.
In a statement, Gardaí confirmed the hoods are currently being procured.
They will be deployed, as a "temporary measure for the duration of the COVID-19 public health situation."
