City of Long Beach Health Department Advises Against Consuming Wild, Foraged Mushrooms

Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach residents are being warned by the City's Department of Health and Human Services to avoid foraging for or consuming wild mushrooms due to the potential risk of amatoxin poisoning. This warning comes after recent poisonings in other parts of California have highlighted the dangers of consuming these toxic mushrooms.

The specific mushroom in question is the death cap, also known as Amanita phalloides, which closely resembles edible varieties in both appearance and taste. These mushrooms are commonly found in the fall and winter months, often growing near oak and pine trees after rainfall. It is important to note that cooking, boiling, drying, or freezing these mushrooms does not make them safe to eat.

Symptoms of amatoxin poisoning typically appear 6 to 24 hours after ingestion and may include watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dehydration. While these symptoms may subside within a day, it is crucial not to be misled as serious liver damage can occur within 48 to 96 hours after consumption. Children and pets are especially vulnerable to these toxic mushrooms and should be kept away from areas where they may grow.

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In the event that someone has consumed a wild mushroom, it is imperative that they seek medical attention immediately or call the California Poison Control Hotline at 1.800.222.1222. Early treatment is critical in preventing serious health complications. The hotline operates 24/7 and can also assist medical providers in ensuring proper treatment.

Residents are strongly advised to only consume mushrooms purchased from trusted grocery stores or retailers. The Health Department is closely monitoring the situation through disease surveillance and working with local healthcare providers as well as the California Department of Public Health.

For more information on this issue, residents can visit the California Department of Public Health's website at go.cdhp.ca.gov/poisonmushrooms. Any media inquiries can be directed to the Health Department's Public Affairs Office at HE-PublicAffairs@longbeach.gov. It is important for the community to heed this warning and take necessary precautions to avoid the potential dangers of consuming wild mushrooms.

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