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California's Deadly Mushroom Poisoning Outbreak Claims Three Lives

1/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

California reports its largest wild mushroom poisoning outbreak, with 35 cases and three fatalities linked to death cap mushrooms.
The California Poison Control Service says symptoms may appear 12–24 hours after exposure and can cause severe liver damage.
Cooking or freezing death cap mushrooms does not make them safe.
Ages range from 19 months to 67 years, and risk is higher among immigrant communities familiar with different mushroom species.

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Story summary

California reports its largest wild mushroom poisoning outbreak, with 35 cases and three fatalities linked to death cap mushrooms.
The California Poison Control Service says symptoms may appear 12–24 hours after exposure and can cause severe liver damage.
Cooking or freezing death cap mushrooms does not make them safe.
Ages range from 19 months to 67 years, and risk is higher among immigrant communities familiar with different mushroom species.