Overview
- State health officials linked the cases to amatoxins in lethal species such as death cap and destroying angel, with clusters reported in Monterey County and the San Francisco Bay Area.
- One adult has died and several patients required intensive care, with at least one patient reported as potentially needing a liver transplant.
- California’s health director Erica Pan urged people not to collect wild mushrooms during this high-risk season because toxic varieties closely resemble edible types.
- Wet weather has accelerated the growth of dangerous mushrooms, and officials emphasized that the hazard exists statewide rather than in isolated areas.
- Initial illness can include cramps, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea within 24 hours, and anyone with suspected exposure is advised to call poison control at 1-800-222-1222.