TULSA, Okla. (AP) - State health officials say one person is dead and dozens of others are sick with an illness that may be related to E. coli bacteria.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health says 14 people have been hospitalized and 20 or more potential cases are being investigated. Those sickened are mostly from northeastern Oklahoma communities and have suffered from severe diarrheal illness.
In a statement issued Monday, the health department said an early investigation has found that many of those who became sick ate at the Country Cottage restaurant in Locust Grove, but that a definite source has not been identified.
The name of the person who died has not been released.
Health department spokesman Larry Weatherford said there have been discussions the illnesses are related to E. coli but it hasn't been confirmed.
State public health officials are conducting testing of specimens to try to determine a diagnosis.
The health department reported the illnesses are a very severe and bloody form of diarrhea, with symptoms also including vomiting and severe abdominal cramping.
"If people have been ill, we certainly would suggest they contact their physician or go to the emergency room," Weatherford said.
