California health officials are warning people about a dangerous outbreak linked to poisonous wild mushrooms. The California Department of Public Health says 47 poisoning cases have been reported as of May 11, 2026. Officials say four people have died and at least four others needed liver transplants.
The cases are tied to amatoxin-containing mushrooms, including Death Cap and Western Destroying Angel mushrooms.
Why Officials Are Concerned
Health officials say the outbreak has continued past the normal peak season. Eight cases were reported in the last four weeks. Four of those were reported in the last week alone. California usually reports fewer than five mushroom poisoning cases each year.
Where Cases Have Been Reported
Hospitals in 12 counties have treated patients with poisoning symptoms:
Alameda, Contra Costa, Humboldt, Monterey, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Sonoma and Yuba.
Officials say the risk is highest in Northern California and the Central Coast, but they warn there is still possible risk statewide.
What Makes These Mushrooms Dangerous
Death Cap and Western Destroying Angel mushrooms can look similar to edible mushrooms. Even people with foraging experience may find them difficult to identify. Officials say the toxins are not removed by cooking, boiling or drying the mushrooms.
What Symptoms Should People Watch For?
Health officials say symptoms can include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and elevated liver enzymes. Doctors are being told to ask patients with stomach illness about possible wild mushroom exposure. Anyone who may have eaten a poisonous mushroom should get medical help right away.
What Californians Should Do
Health officials are urging people to avoid picking and eating wild mushrooms while the risk remains high. People should buy mushrooms from trusted grocery stores and retailers. Officials also warn pet owners to keep animals away from wild mushrooms because pets can be poisoned too.
Who to Call
Anyone who thinks they may have eaten a poisonous mushroom should not wait for symptoms to appear.
Call the California Poison Control System at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.
The bottom line is simple: do not eat wild mushrooms unless they have been safely identified by a trusted expert.
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