SACRAMENTO, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — California health officials are urging the public to avoid foraging for wild mushrooms after a dangerous outbreak of amatoxin poisoning led to severe illnesses — including liver failure — and at least one death statewide.

On Friday, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced that 21 cases have been reported as of Dec. 5 — identified by the California Poison Control System — with clusters identified in the Monterey and San Francisco Bay area. Patients include both children and adults, and several required intensive care. One adult died, and another may need a liver transplant,.

“Death cap mushrooms contain potentially deadly toxins that can lead to liver failure,” said Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH director and state public health officer. “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.”

Death caps — scientifically known as Amanita phalloides — resemble some edible mushroom varieties, making them easy for even experienced foragers to misidentify, according to CDPH. Cooking or freezing them does not neutralize the toxins.

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Officials warn that mushroom poisoning symptoms typically begin six to 24 hours after ingestion and may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dehydration. Patients often experience a short period of apparent recovery, but health experts say this can be deceptive as dangerous liver damage may develop 48 to 96 hours after consumption.

Healthcare providers are encouraged to contact the California Poison Control System at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance if mushroom poisoning is suspected.

As explained by CDPH officials, death cap mushrooms thrive in California’s fall and winter months, especially after rain. They grow near oak, pine and other hardwood trees and are common throughout the state, including in urban areas.

Given the rising cases and severe outcomes, CDPH strongly advises foragers to only consume mushrooms purchased from reputable stores or trusted commercial suppliers.

For more information, visit the CDPH website or contact the California Poison Control System.

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