Health authorities are warning Victorians to be careful with wild mushrooms, which are commonly seen during autumn when conditions are cooler and wetter.

The advice highlights that some mushrooms found in the state are highly poisonous, including death cap mushrooms and yellow-staining mushrooms.

Death cap mushrooms are extremely dangerous, and even one can be fatal. Cooking, drying, or peeling them does not remove the poison.

The Amanita phalloides poisoning can start with stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea within 6 to 24 hours. While symptoms may briefly improve, serious internal damage can follow, including liver failure and possibly death within a few days.

Another common cause of poisoning is the yellow-staining mushroom, which can look similar to safe edible mushrooms sold in shops. It can grow in gardens and lawns and often causes stomach illness after being eaten.

Health experts say there is no reliable home test to tell safe mushrooms from poisonous ones.

People are strongly advised not to pick or eat wild mushrooms in Victoria unless they are experts. Mushrooms from supermarkets and approved sellers are safe to eat.

Anyone who may have eaten a wild mushroom is urged not to wait for symptoms.

In serious cases, emergency services should be contacted immediately.

Authorities also warn pet owners to keep animals away from wild mushrooms, as they can also cause severe illness or death in pets.

https://www.health.vic.gov.au/

Source: Victorian Department of Health