AS autumn ushers in cooler, wetter weather across Victoria, a surge in wild mushroom growth is expected and with it comes some serious health risks.
The Victorian Chief Health Officer warns that poisonous varieties like death cap and yellow-staining mushrooms are now appearing in gardens and public areas.
These toxic fungi can cause severe illness or even death, with early symptoms including vomiting and diarrhoea. There is no safe way to identify edible wild mushrooms at home. Children, pets, and adults must avoid contact entirely. Only consume mushrooms from trusted retailers.
If ingestion occurs, seek urgent medical advice via the Victorian Poisons Information Centre
If your pet has ingested a wild mushroom, contact the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 for advice.
More information on poisonous mushrooms is available at Mushroom poisoning | Better Health Channel.
