California Officials Warn Residents About Increase in Mushroom Poisonings

There has been an increase in wild mushroom poisonings in California, the California Poison Control System (CPCS) warned residents in a press release on Wednesday, May 13.

In the statement, the CPCS told residents not to eat any mushrooms found outdoors and that the only safe mushrooms are those in supermarkets and stores.

Since Nov 18, 2025, approximately 47 Californians have been hospitalized after eating poisonous wild mushrooms. Out of the 47, four deaths were reported.

Eight of the mushroom poisoning cases were reported in the last three weeks.

Most cases have been concentrated in Northern California, but they have been making their way into the Central Valley, according to the CPCS.

As of May 13, the most recent cases were reported last weekend in Napa County. Three people were hospitalized after eating wild mushrooms they found in the area of Deer Park.

Side effects and safety measures

Side effects of mushroom poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or intense stomach pain.

If someone thinks they have been poisoned, officials advise seeking medical attention or calling 911 immediately.

If someone has eaten a mushroom and is unsure whether it is poisonous and they have no side effects, they can call California’s toll-free Poison Hotline at 1-800-222-1222, per the CPCS.

The poison hotline operators offer callers free, non-judgmental expertise and treatment advice (if needed).

There are translation services offered in more than 200 languages.