Deadly Mushroom Poisonings Surge in California

Public health officials warn of risks, urge caution when foraging for wild mushrooms

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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A recent spike in mushroom-related illnesses and deaths in California has prompted concern and a search for answers among residents and mycological experts. The uptick in poisonings, particularly involving the deadly death cap mushroom, has led to increased public awareness and caution.

Why it matters

The rise in mushroom poisonings, including several fatalities, highlights the critical importance of accurate mushroom identification and the risks of foraging for wild mushrooms. The disproportionate impact on non-English speakers also underscores the need for multilingual education and outreach efforts.

The details

In the past three months, California has experienced a 'sudden uptick' in cases of people becoming sickened after consuming poisonous mushrooms found in the wild. As of January 18, the California Department of Public Health reported 39 illnesses related to death caps, including four fatalities and three liver transplants. This represents a significant increase compared to a typical year, when the California Poison Control Center receives up to five such cases. The most recent death linked to wild mushroom consumption was confirmed on January 27 in Contra Costa County, bringing the total number of fatalities to four.

  • In the past three months, California has experienced a 'sudden uptick' in cases of mushroom-related illnesses and deaths.
  • As of January 18, the California Department of Public Health reported 39 illnesses related to death caps, including four fatalities and three liver transplants.
  • The most recent death linked to wild mushroom consumption was confirmed on January 27 in Contra Costa County.

The players

California Department of Public Health

The state's public health agency that has reported the recent surge in mushroom-related illnesses and deaths.

San Francisco Mycological Society

A group collaborating with the state public health department to create warning signs and multilingual fliers about the risks of foraging for wild mushrooms.

Erin Patterson

An Australian woman sentenced to life in prison in 2025 for murdering relatives with poisonous fungi, serving as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of mushroom poisoning.

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What’s next

Public health officials stated they are collaborating with the San Francisco Mycological Society to create warning signs and multilingual fliers with QR codes for distribution in recreational areas to raise awareness about the risks of foraging for wild mushrooms.

The takeaway

The surge in deadly mushroom poisonings in California highlights the critical need for improved public education, especially among non-English speaking communities, on the risks of misidentifying and consuming wild mushrooms. Experts emphasize that observing and learning about mushrooms is safe, but consuming them without proper identification can be fatal.