Forty-two Premier League players and staff tested positive for Covid-19 in the past week - the most recorded in the league over a seven-day period.
It is the highest number since 40 cases were reported in January.
That week, 2,295 tests were carried out, while 3,805 tests were done in the latest round from 6-12 December.
Brighton, Tottenham, Leicester, Manchester United, Aston Villa and Norwich have all confirmed cases, with United's game at Brentford postponed.Â
Sunday's Brighton v Tottenham fixture was also postponed following a Covid-19 outbreak at Spurs.
Previously, the most positive tests returned in a week this season was 16 from 16-22 August, when there were 3,060 tests.
The latest report of 42 results is an increase of 30 on the 12 positives reported from 3,154 tests from 29 November - 5 December.
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