Health officials seek cause of illness

Eureka County Sheriff Ken Jones said those who suffered serious flu-like symptoms attended a catered birthday party Saturday night at the Eureka Opera House.

Three aircraft and seven ambulances were called Monday to either transport victims or standby to assist at the Eureka clinic.

Ten people were described by the State Health Division as "acutely ill" and in need of medical treatment. At least two people were hospitalized for observation.

All the victims were adults.

Luana Ritch, state public health officer, said a preliminary investigation ruled out any evidence of e-coli poisoning, although authorities are still trying to track the source and type of organism that caused the outbreak.

Most of those who got sick were from Eureka. Nine people who attended the party were treated at Reno-area hospitals after returning home, officials said.

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