California Department Of Public Health Issues Health Advisory For Consumption Of Foraged Wild Mushrooms

Public Advised Not To Forage For Wild Mushrooms During High-Risk Season  

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued  an urgent advisory following a recent outbreak of amatoxin poisoning linked to the  consumption of wild, foraged mushrooms. As of December 5, 2025, 21 cases have been  identified by the California Poison Control System (CPCS) with significant clusters  reported in the Monterey and San Francisco Bay Areas, although the risk is statewide. 

Toxic mushrooms, such as the death cap (Amanita phalloides), cannot be distinguished  by taste from varieties that are safe to consume. Death cap mushrooms are found in  many parts of California, particularly near oaks and other hardwood trees, including pine  trees. Consuming these mushrooms can lead to severe poisoning for humans and  animals. Cooking, boiling, drying, or freezing these mushrooms does NOT make  them safe to eat. 

“Severe, potentially fatal liver damage is associated with the consumption of foraged wild  mushrooms,” said Dr. Henning Ansorg, Public Health Officer “so we are urging residents  to be cautious when purchasing wild mushrooms from street vendors, and to avoid  consuming food prepared with foraged wild mushrooms during this high-risk season.” 

Symptoms of amatoxin poisoning include watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal  pain, and dehydration within 6 to 24 hours of ingestion. Call 911 if severe symptoms  develop, like violent vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and severe abdominal cramps. 

Given the grave risk posed by consuming these toxic mushrooms, County Health reminds  residents that the best way to stay safe is to not eat wild mushrooms. 

If you or someone you know has eaten a poisonous mushroom, DON’T WAIT.  Immediately seek medical care or call the California Poison Control Hotline at 1- 800-222-1222. The hotline can tell you exactly what to do in case of a mushroom  poisoning. They can also provide guidance to medical providers to ensure proper care. 

If a pet eats a poisonous mushroom, contact your veterinarian or the American SPCA  Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435. 

For more information, visit the CDPH website.