County Warns Residents as Amatoxin Mushroom Poisonings Rise

May 23, 2026

San Diego County health officials are warning residents not to forage or consume wild mushrooms due to an alarming surge in amatoxin poisonings throughout California. Since November 2025, the state has documented 47 poisoning cases—dramatically higher than the typical yearly total of fewer than five—resulting in four fatalities and four liver transplants. Wild mushrooms, particularly death cap varieties found in San Diego County, can contain amatoxins that cause severe liver damage and cannot be neutralized through cooking or other preparation methods.

Who is affected

California residents, particularly those who forage wild mushrooms
47 people poisoned by mushrooms since November 2025 statewide
Four people who died from mushroom poisoning
Four people who required liver transplants
Children and pets who may accidentally ingest wild mushrooms in yards, parks, canyons, or open spaces
San Diego County residents (though no local cases reported yet this year)

What action is being taken

County public health officials are urging residents to avoid foraging for and eating wild mushrooms
County health officials are recommending that people remove wild mushrooms from outdoor areas
The California Poison Control System is operating a 24-hour hotline (1-800-222-1222) for people who have eaten wild mushrooms and develop symptoms
The American SPCA Animal Poison Control Center is providing support for pet poisoning cases

Why it matters

This situation is unprecedented and represents a significant public health crisis, with California experiencing nearly ten times its typical annual mushroom poisoning cases in just a few months. The amatoxins found in these mushrooms cause severe, potentially fatal liver damage that cannot be prevented through normal cooking methods, and symptoms may be delayed, making it difficult for people to connect their illness to mushroom consumption. The toxicity poses risks not only to foragers but also to children and pets who may accidentally consume mushrooms in common outdoor spaces.

What's next

Anyone who has eaten wild mushrooms and develops symptoms should seek medical care immediately
People should call the California Poison Control System at 1-800-222-1222 if symptoms develop
Pet owners should contact a veterinarian or the American SPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 if their pet may have eaten a toxic mushroom

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint