Health authorities in New South Wales (NSW) have issued a strong warning to residents against foraging or consuming wild mushrooms due to the identification of lethal death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides) in various regions, including Sydney and the Southern Highlands. Genevieve Adamo, a senior specialist at the NSW Poisons Information Centre, emphasised that these mushrooms pose serious health risks if ingested.
Symptoms of mushroom poisoning can often manifest with a delay, making prompt medical attention crucial for a better health outcome. Initial signs may include vomiting and diarrhoea, with more severe effects potentially leading to significant liver and kidney damage or even death. Adamo cautioned that parents should closely supervise their children when outdoors, particularly in areas where mushrooms may grow, such as parks and gardens. Parents are advised to promptly remove any mushrooms they discover to protect their children’s safety, as young children are particularly prone to putting things in their mouths.
The alarming rise in incidents related to mushroom poisoning has been highlighted by the NSW Poisons Information Centre, which has already received nearly 200 calls regarding toxic mushrooms this year alone. This follows last year’s troubling statistics, which included 23 hospitalisations due to mushroom ingestion, with two affected individuals being young children. In 2023, there was also a 26% increase in calls related to wild mushrooms in NSW and the Australian Capital Territory, reaching a total of 363.
Professor Brett Summerell, the chief scientist at the Botanic Gardens of Sydney, warned about the difficulties of identifying edible mushrooms versus poisonous varieties. He stressed that there is no foolproof method to determine whether a mushroom is safe to consume, reiterating advice against foraging. Furthermore, cooking mushrooms does not eliminate the toxicity of poisonous varieties. Residents are encouraged to purchase mushrooms solely from reputable vendors, such as grocery stores and markets, to ensure their safety.
Local councils and NSW Health have been conducting ongoing surveillance for death cap mushrooms over the past two years, following their initial detection in Southern NSW. This proactive approach aims to mitigate risks and prevent potential poisonings linked to this hazardous mushroom species. Overall, the message from health authorities is clear: it is best to avoid wild mushrooms altogether for the sake of safety.