Health officials say investigators have tracked the source of the E. coli illness that sickened 13 Snohomish County residents. Suzanne Pate, spokeswoman for the Snohomish Health District says 13 of 17 people who became ill this month ate at the Ixtapa restaurant at 303 91^St. Ave.NE in Lake Stevens. Most of the sickened people ate at the restaurant between Oct. 2 and Oct. 3.!

The restaurant closed voluntarily Tuesday after investigators reported their findings. The owner of the restaurant says he would work to the Snohomish Health District to resolve potential food safety issues, Pate said.

People can prevent most cases of E.coli by thoroughly washing their hands, avoid contact with raw meat. Outbreaks have been associated with undercooked ground beef (used for hamburgers), vegetables grown in cow manure or washed in contaminated water.

Esterichia coli is a common bacteria found in the human digestive tract. Some strains, such as the E.coli O157:H7 strain can cause bad stomach cramps with little or no fever, vomiting, diarrhea, sometimes with blood in it.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should see a doctor. Some people could develop more serious complications that could cause kidney failure or even death.

In some cases, it can cause life threatening problems. Children, the elderly and people with weak immune systems are more exposed to the disease. The negative health effects of E. coli can remain for months and years later.

“Food safety and the health of our customers is the No. 1 priority of Ixtapa's owners and employees,” a statement issued by the restaurant said.

State health officials are continuing the investigation to determine the exact cause of the outbreak.