Hospital cases of norovirus in England have reached their highest level since records began, with an average of 1,160 patients per day being treated for the vomiting bug last week.
The figures, released by NHS England, show the number of patients hospitalised with the virus has doubled compared to the same period last year.
The latest data reveals a sharp 22 per cent increase from the previous week, when 948 patients were in hospital with the virus.
This surge has pushed infection levels to unprecedented heights since records began in 2012.
Hospital cases of norovirus in England have reached their highest level since records began, with an average of 1,160 patients per day being treated for the vomiting bug last week
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The impact means that more than 1 per cent of hospital beds are now occupied by patients suffering from the vomiting bug.
Meanwhile, flu cases continue to decline, with just over 1,700 beds currently occupied by patients with the virus.
The virus is putting significant additional pressure on hospitals due to strict isolation requirements.
Nearly 300 empty beds per day are being taken out of action to prevent the spread of infection, as wards with infected patients must be isolated and thoroughly cleaned.
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Hospitals are continuing to "run at near capacity," according to NHS officials, with almost one in seven beds occupied by patients who are medically fit for discharge.
NHS England medical director Prof Sir Stephen Powis said: "It is concerning to see the number of patients with Norovirus hit an all-time high and there is no let up for hospital staff who are working tirelessly to treat more than a thousand patients each day with the horrible bug, on top of other winter viruses."
He urged people to help prevent the spread of norovirus by washing hands frequently with soap and water and avoiding contact with others until two days after symptoms have cleared.
Most healthy people recover from norovirus within a few days, though it can cause serious problems for vulnerable people and young children.
The figures, released by NHS England, show the number of patients hospitalised with the virus has doubled compared to the same period last year
GETTYThe virus spreads very easily, with just a few viral particles needed to cause infection through close contact or contaminated food.
Health officials advise staying home until two days after symptoms stop and drinking plenty of fluids.
Those concerned about symptoms, particularly if young children cannot keep fluids down or illness persists, should seek medical advice.
