California death cap surge leaves four dead and three needing liver transplants

A spike in death cap mushroom poisonings in California has killed four people and led to three liver transplants. Officials warn that foraging is dangerous because death caps resemble edible varieties and color or cooking cannot indicate safety. A warm, rainy season contributed to a widespread proliferation of the mushrooms in parks and forests, especially near oak trees. Exposures span diverse communities, with warnings issued in multiple languages. People are advised to avoid wild mushrooms, purchase edible mushrooms from trusted sources, and seek urgent medical help if ingestion is suspected. Poison centers report a rise in mushroom exposures overall.