CDPH is closely monitoring the increase in hospitalizations of Californians who have consumed foraged toxic mushrooms (death cap mushrooms, Amanita phalloides). Between mid-November and early December 2025, the California Poison Control System identified twenty-one cases of Amanita phalloides poisoning among persons who had consumed foraged wild mushrooms. As of December 5, 2025, twenty-one individuals who sought medical attention reported adverse effects, including acute liver injury and liver failure. Several patients have required admission to an intensive care unit, with one confirmed adult death to date. No cases been have identified in Orange County to date.
Health care providers should be aware of the potential for multiphase toxicity following wild mushroom ingestion. Gastrointestinal symptoms mimicking viral gastroenteritis can occur within 6 to 24 hours and typically resolve within 24 hours. This improvement can create a false impression of recovery as patients may still progress to potentially fatal hepatotoxicity within 48 to 96 hours after ingestion. Contact California Poison Control System at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on diagnosing and treating patients with suspected mushroom poisoning.
Advisory: Outbreak of Potentially Deadly Amatoxin Poisoning Linked to the Consumption of Wild, Foraged Mushrooms
CDPH Resource: Poisonous Wild Mushrooms
