Explainer: How does the HSE cyber attack affect me?

The extent of the damage to the HSE system is not yet known, but HSE chief Paul Reid has described the attack as "significant and serious"

The HSE has shut down all of its IT systems at a local and national level in response to a "significant and serious" cyber attack.

It is understood the HSE was targeted in what is known as a 'zero day' attack, meaning the criminals exploited a vulnerability which was not known to the HSE.