Death cap mushrooms kill three and hospitalize dozens in California.

California officials report three deaths and 35 cases of wild mushroom poisoning this season linked to death cap mushrooms.

State and county health officials say death cap mushrooms in California have caused multiple poisonings and three deaths this season. Sonoma County issued an advisory after a recent fatality, warning people about foraged wild mushrooms. The California Department of Public Health reported 35 cases between November 18 and January 4, including three deaths and three liver transplants. Officials attribute the rise to early rains and a mild fall that increased mushroom growth. Known details: - State health data show 35 reported cases of wild mushroom poisoning between November 18 and January 4, resulting in three deaths and three liver transplants. - Sonoma County issued an advisory after a fatality; the East Bay Regional Park District reported large numbers of toxic mushrooms in its parks and noted that foraging is prohibited there. - Officials and experts reported that death caps (Amanita phalloides) and western destroying angels contain amatoxins, and that cooking, drying, or freezing does not remove their toxicity. Summary: The rise in amatoxin poisonings has prompted public advisories and closer monitoring by health agencies. The increase is associated with an unusually wet season that produced more mushrooms than normal. Undetermined at this time.