With seasonal rains promoting the growth of wild mushrooms, Dr. Ron Chapman, director of the California Department of Public Health and state public health officer, warned consumers not to collect or eat wild mushrooms.
"It is very difficult to distinguish which mushrooms are dangerous and which are safe to eat. Consuming wild mushrooms can cause serious illness and even death," Chapman said. Wild mushrooms grow in shady, moist and humid environments.
Four people died in November in California as a result of eating wild mushrooms.
Anyone who develops symptoms after eating wild mushrooms should contact the California Poison Control System at (800) 222-1222.
