California Death Toll Rises as Death Cap Mushroom Poisonings Spread

California authorities have issued a warning against eating foraged mushrooms after nearly two dozen people were sickened, including one fatality, by the highly poisonous death cap mushroom. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) reported 21 confirmed cases of toxic mushroom poisoning, which it believes is likely due to the consumption of death caps between mid-November and last Friday. Toxins from the mushrooms caused severe liver damage in several patients, with at least one individual requiring intensive care and potentially needing a liver transplant. According to Dr. Erica S. Pan, the CDPH's Deputy Director and State Public Health Officer, "the death cap mushroom is highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested. We urge everyone to exercise extreme caution when foraging for wild mushrooms and to avoid eating any mushrooms that are not positively identified as safe by an expert." Dr. Pan emphasized that the death cap mushroom can be easily mistaken for edible varieties, and its presence is often found near oak and other hardwood trees in urban and suburban areas. The death cap mushroom is a global concern, with reported cases of poisoning in various countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. In 2018, a woman in Australia was sentenced to life in prison for murdering her in-laws using the highly toxic mushroom. The incident highlighted the dangers of foraging for wild mushrooms and the importance of proper identification. The California incident has raised concerns among health officials and mushroom enthusiasts. "This is a sobering reminder of the risks associated with foraging for wild mushrooms," said Dr. Michael G. Klein, a mycologist at the University of California, Berkeley. "While some mushrooms can be safely foraged, the death cap is a highly toxic species that requires expert knowledge to identify." The CDPH has advised people to avoid eating foraged mushrooms until further notice and to seek medical attention immediately if they suspect they have ingested a toxic mushroom. The agency is working with local health departments and law enforcement to investigate the source of the contaminated mushrooms and to prevent future incidents. In the meantime, health officials are urging the public to exercise caution when handling wild mushrooms and to seek expert advice before consuming any foraged species. As Dr. Pan noted, "the safety of our communities is our top priority, and we will continue to work tirelessly to prevent further incidents of toxic mushroom poisoning."