Hospitals in the North West have been hit by a surge in norovirus infections.
An average of 72 patients a day were hospitalised with the virus over the last two weeks, more than double the 31 patients during the same period last year.
Across England, the number of beds occupied by norovirus patients reached a record high last week.
An average of 1,160 patients a day were hospitalised with the virus, a 22 per cent increase on the previous week and more than double the same period last year.
NHS England North West's regional medical director, Dr Michael Gregory, said: "Cases of norovirus are still high and continue to rise nationally.
"It is half term and we’re hoping this will provide a break.
"However, it’s important we all take steps to avoid passing on the infections.
"The bug remains high in settings like hospitals and care homes, and can be more severe in older adults, younger children and those who are immunocompromised."
He urged people not to visit hospitals and care homes or return to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.
He also advised against preparing food for others during this period.
Dr Gregory highlighted the importance of handwashing and other simple ways to prevent the spread of norovirus, commonly called the winter vomiting bug.
He said: "I’d like to remind everyone to practise good hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and warm water, especially after using the toilet, cleaning up after illness, or before preparing food."
Norovirus symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhoea, usually resolve within two to three days, but the virus can pose a greater risk to vulnerable groups, such as young children and older adults.
The latest national NHS England data shows flu cases in hospital have continued to fall but are still putting pressure on front-line services, with an average of 1,755 patients with flu in beds last week, including 87 in critical care.
There were 22 children on average in hospital with RSV each day, up 83 per cent from 12 the week before.
The number of patients with Covid rose slightly on the week before, up 3 per cent from 952 to 984.
