Oklahoma’s state health officials announced that the source of the worrying E.coli outbreak has finally been identified. According to their investigation, responsible for the incident is a restaurant’s well water.

The bacterium has already caused the death of a 26-year old and has sickened several dozens of people, bringing the total to 116. Almost half of them demanded hospitalization.

"The focus has been narrowed to the Country Cottage Restaurant located in Locust Grove," explained Leslea Bennett-Webb, director of communication for the Oklahoma State Department of Health.

The water demanded several tests before concluding that it is indeed the bacterium’s source and until then the restaurant will remain closed. The first tests showed the presence of bacteria but before the rest of the tests are completed the authorities will not be 100 percent sure that they are dealing with the E.coli. Mr. Leslea Bennett-Webb said that the subtype of bacteria, called E. coli 0111, is "not normally found in this form of outbreak."

Even though in the last few weeks there have been fewer cases of infections reported, the authorities are still on high alert, looking to keep the numbers as low as possible. "While we believe we are seeing a downward curve in the number of people who have become ill, we still have many challenges with some patients who remain hospitalized," said State Epidemiologist Dr. Kristy Bradley. "We continue to ask the public to be extra diligent in their hand washing and food preparation to minimize the possibility of additional persons becoming ill." This constant effort to keep the public informed on the effects and ways of protecting against the bacteria, was one of the determinant factors in helping people avoid the infection and lowering the number of cases.