"The state poison control system has identified 21 cases of amatoxin poisoning, likely caused by death cap mushrooms, the health department said Friday. The toxic wild mushrooms are often mistaken for edible ones because of their appearance and taste. Death cap mushrooms contain potentially deadly toxins that can lead to liver failure, Erica Pan, director of the California department of public health, said in a statement."
"Because the death cap can easily be mistaken for edible safe mushrooms, we advise the public not to forage for wild mushrooms at all during this high-risk season. One adult has died and several patients have required intensive care, including at least one who might need a liver transplant. Wet weather fuels the growth of death cap mushrooms, and officials warn against any wild mushroom foraging to avoid confusion."
"There were more than 4,500 cases of exposure to unidentified mushrooms logged at the US's Poison Centers in 2023, according to their National Poison Data System annual report. Roughly half were in young children, whom experts warn may pick and eat a mushroom while playing outside. California's poison control system sees hundreds of cases of wild mushroom poisonings each year."
An outbreak of amatoxin poisoning linked to death cap wild mushrooms in California has produced 21 identified cases, killed one adult, and caused severe liver damage in several patients, including children. Death cap mushrooms resemble edible varieties and contain toxins that can cause liver failure and may require transplantation. Wet weather increases mushroom growth and risk across regions including Monterey County and the San Francisco Bay Area. Symptoms include stomach cramping, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Health officials and poison control advise against foraging for wild mushrooms during the high-risk season. U.S. poison centers logged over 4,500 unidentified-mushroom exposures in 2023.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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