The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued an urgent advisory after a recent outbreak of amatoxin poisoning, which has been linked to the consumption of wild, foraged mushrooms. The outbreak has resulted in severe liver damage among both children and adults, including one adult death. As of December 5, 2025, the California Poison Control System (CPCS) has identified 21 cases. Significant clusters have occurred in the Monterey and San Francisco Bay Areas, but officials warn that the risk is present throughout the state.
Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer, stated: “Death cap mushrooms contain potentially deadly toxins that can lead to liver failure. Because the death cap can easily be mistaken for edible safe mushrooms, we advise the public not to forage for wild mushrooms at all during this high-risk season.”
Health authorities are urging residents to avoid collecting or eating wild mushrooms due to the increased risk of amatoxin poisoning during this period.
