California is currently grappling with its largest and deadliest outbreak of mushroom poisoning in history, primarily linked to the highly toxic death cap mushroom, or Amanita phalloides.As of January 6, 2026, health officials reported at least three deaths and 35 hospitalizations due to the consumption of these dangerous fungi, which are often mistaken for edible varieties.
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latimes.comnewsweek.comThe outbreak has been exacerbated by an exceptionally wet December, which has led to a significant proliferation of death cap mushrooms across Northern and Central California.Areas particularly affected include Monterey County and the San Francisco Bay region, where the majority of cases have been reported.
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newsweek.comusatoday.comPublic health officials have issued repeated warnings against foraging for wild mushrooms, emphasizing the acute dangers posed by the death cap.This mushroom is responsible for over 90% of mushroom-related fatalities worldwide, and its toxins can lead to severe liver damage and death, even in small quantities.
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newsweek.comusatoday.comCraig Smollin, medical director of the San Francisco division of the California Poison Control System, stated, "We have not had a season as deadly as this season both in terms of the total numbers of cases as well as deaths and liver transplants.I believe this is probably the largest outbreak that we've seen in California, ever".
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latimes.comnewsweek.comThe California Department of Public Health (CDPH) reported that the affected individuals ranged in age from 19 months to 67 years.In a typical year, the California Poison Control Center may receive fewer than five cases of mushroom poisoning, making this outbreak exceptionally rare and dangerous.
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newsweek.comusatoday.comSymptoms of death cap mushroom poisoning can manifest within six to 24 hours after ingestion, initially presenting as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.These symptoms may temporarily improve, misleading victims before severe liver damage occurs 48 to 96 hours later.
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newsweek.comusatoday.comThe death cap mushroom is characterized by its smooth, dome-shaped cap, which can be pale green, yellow, or olive in color.It features white gills and a cup-like structure at the base of its stem, making it visually similar to some edible mushrooms, which increases the risk of accidental consumption.Experts have noted that many victims are immigrants who may mistake the death cap for familiar edible species from their home countries.
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latimes.comnewsweek.comOne notable case involved a family from Salinas who foraged for mushrooms resembling those they would typically eat in Oaxaca, Mexico.After consuming the mushrooms, both parents fell critically ill, with one requiring a liver transplant due to the severity of their condition.
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newsweek.comusatoday.comIn response to the outbreak, the CDPH is coordinating with local agencies to track cases and raise awareness about the dangers of wild mushroom consumption.They are also distributing multilingual warnings and educational materials to help prevent further incidents.Residents are advised to purchase mushrooms only from reputable sources and to seek immediate medical attention if they suspect mushroom poisoning.
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newsweek.comusatoday.comAs conditions remain favorable for mushroom growth, public health officials stress the importance of avoiding foraging for wild mushrooms during this high-risk season.The ongoing outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with wild foraging and the critical need for public education on this issue.
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newsweek.comusatoday.comFor more information on identifying poisonous mushrooms and updates on the outbreak, residents are encouraged to consult resources from the California Department of Public Health and the California Poison Control System.If anyone believes they have consumed a toxic mushroom, they should contact the California Poison Control hotline at 1-800-222-1222 immediately.
