Poisonous mushrooms growing in Melbourne
Status: Active
Date issued: 13 May 2020
Issued by: Dr Angie Bone, Deputy Chief Health Officer (Environment)
Issued to: Health professionals and consumers
Key messages
- Poisonous mushrooms including Death Cap mushrooms and Yellow-staining mushrooms are currently growing abundantly around Victoria as a result of the recent heavy rains
- A number of serious mushroom poisonings have occurred in Victoria the last two weeks. Eating just one Death Cap mushroom can kill an adult
- Unless you are an expert, do not pick and eat wild mushrooms in Victoria
- In most cases the sooner treatment can begin, the better the outcome. If it is suspected that you or your child have eaten a poisonous mushroom, do not wait for symptoms to occur before seeking medical attention.
- Cooking, peeling or drying these mushrooms does not remove or inactivate the poison.
- There is no home test available to distinguish safe and edible mushrooms from poisonous mushrooms.
- Mushrooms purchased from a supermarket, greengrocer or other reputable source are safe to eat.
- Dog owners should take particular care whilst walking their pet in areas where mushrooms may grow and where possible remove any mushrooms from their yard before they have a chance to eat them.
Read the full alert: Poisonous mushrooms growing in Melbourne
Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.