The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is issuing an urgent advisory following a recent outbreak of amatoxin poisoning linked to the consumption of foraged wild mushrooms.
Confirmed cases have resulted in severe liver damage in pediatric and adult patients, including the death of one adult. As of December 5, 2025, 21 cases have been identified by the California Poison Control System (CPCS), with large clusters reported in the Monterey Bay and San Francisco areas, although there is a statewide risk.
“Death cap mushrooms contain deadly toxins that can lead to liver failure. Because these mushrooms can easily be mistaken for a safe, edible mushroom, we advise the public not to forage for wild mushrooms at all during this high-risk season,” said Dr. Erica Pan, DPH Director and State Public Health Officer.
Poisonous mushrooms, such as the death cap mushroom (Amanita phalloides), can easily be confused with safe, edible mushrooms due to their similar appearance and taste. Consuming this mushroom can lead to severe poisoning. Cooking, boiling, drying, or freezing these mushrooms does not make them safe to eat.
Health care providers should be aware of the possibility of poisoning after eating wild mushrooms. Initial symptoms, such as watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dehydration, can occur within 6 to 24 hours after consuming this poisonous mushroom and usually go away within a day. However, this short improvement can be deceptive, as patients may go on to develop serious to fatal liver damage within 48 to 96 hours after taking the mushroom. Health care providers are advised to call the California Poison Control System at 800-222-1222 for guidance on diagnosing and treating patients with suspected mushroom poisoning.
Between mid-November and early December 2025, the California Poison Control System identified 21 cases of toxic mushroom poisoning (possibly the death cap mushroom, Amanita phalloides). Many patients require intensive care, and at least one individual will likely need a liver transplant.
The California Poison Control System is closely monitoring the increase in calls related to hospitalizations of individuals who have ingested toxic wild mushrooms. The California Poison Control System also provides guidance for health care providers who treat patients with toxic mushroom poisoning.
The death cap fungus is found in many parts of California, especially near oaks and other hardwood trees, including pines. Rains in the fall and winter months create ideal conditions for its growth. Due to the serious risks posed by consumption of this toxic mushroom, CDPH strongly advises the public to avoid foraging wild mushrooms and to only consume mushrooms purchased from reputable stores or known commercial sources.