Five cases of mushroom poisoning in the province of Avellino

Since the beginning of the autumn season in Irpinia There are already five cases of mushroom poisoning identified by the Mycological Inspectorate

The episodes involve people who, after having ingested toxic specimens, had to resort to hospital treatment

Since the beginning of the autumn season, there have already been five cases of mushroom poisoning identified by the Mycological Inspectorate made available to citizens by the Local Health Authority of Avellino led by Dr. Mario Nicola Vittorio Ferrante.

The poisoning episodes involve people who, after having ingested toxic specimens, had to seek hospital treatment. Specifically, one episode was caused by the consumption of Amanita Pantherina and four, instead, by the consumption of Omphalotus Olearius (olive mushroom), which is also toxic to humans.

Established at the Food and Nutrition Hygiene Service (SIAN), directed by Dr. Michelina Prudente, the Mycological Inspectorate offers a free service consisting of consultancy on the edibility of the collected species, guaranteeing their safe consumption.

The Inspectorate intervenes in cases of suspected mushroom poisoning in hospital facilities, as occurred in the aforementioned cases which required the intervention of the expert mycologist, Dr. Giuseppina Mongelluzzo.

In order to avoid even serious health risks, it is important to have a thorough knowledge of poisonous mushroom species as some can easily be confused with edible species, as in the case of Omphalotus Olearius (olive mushroom).

The latter is causing several episodes of poisoning because it is mistaken for Cantharellus Cibarius (chanterelle) for its color and for Armillaria Mellea (honeycomb) because it grows on stumps. Its inviting appearance and attractive colors threaten less experienced collectors, who consume it lightly, unaware of its toxicity.