Summary
A warning has been issued in California after one person died and 20 others became ill due to mushroom poisoning. The poisoning cases involve wild mushrooms, primarily affecting people who foraged them in the state. Authorities caution against collecting wild mushrooms, especially during the rainy season when deadly types like the death cap mushroom thrive.
Key Facts
- A recent mushroom poisoning outbreak led to one death and 20 illnesses in California.
- The California Department of Public Health warns against eating wild mushrooms.
- Poisonings were reported mainly in Monterey County and the San Francisco Bay Area.
- The death cap mushroom is responsible for most of these poisonings.
- Death cap mushrooms often grow near hardwood trees and are deadly if consumed.
- Cooking, drying, or freezing does not remove the toxins in death cap mushrooms.
- Symptoms of poisoning include abdominal pain and can lead to severe liver damage.
- Children are at higher risk due to their smaller body size and developing organs.
