Poisonous mushrooms growing in Melbourne

Name: Eastern Melbourne PHN
Address: Level 4, 990 Whitehorse Rd, Box Hill, VIC, 3128, Australia
Telephone: (03) 9046 0300

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.

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.