After the Onset of Monsoon, Various Mushrooms Emerge; Ministry of Health Warns to Be Careful as Consuming Mushrooms Can Lead to Poisoning and Death

Pajau Media

June 17, 2025

During the monsoon season, after the first rains, various types of mushrooms sprout, and the Ministry of Health has warned that consuming mushrooms can lead to poisoning and even death. Therefore, people are advised to be cautious when eating mushrooms.

Seasonal mushrooms are a popular and delicious food enjoyed by many. However, the Ministry of Health advises only to consume mushrooms that are commonly sold in markets and to avoid picking and eating any wild mushrooms found on the ground.

Symptoms of mushroom poisoning typically appear within 24 hours after consumption and may include abdominal pain, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, difficulty breathing, increased body temperature, profuse sweating, and diarrhea. In severe cases, heart failure and death can occur within 48 hours. Therefore, it is advised to be especially careful when consuming mushrooms during the mushroom season.

Even with mushrooms that are commonly eaten, if they have gone bad or spoiled, they can still cause poisoning. Therefore, care must be taken to ensure mushrooms are fresh before eating.

Deaths from eating seasonal mushrooms are a recurring issue in Putao, Kachin State, where foraging for seasonal foods is common. For example, in April of this year, an elderly woman over 60 years old died after consuming poisonous mushrooms, while a 12-year-old child was saved by being taken to the hospital in time. In previous years, there have also been cases where entire families have died from mushroom poisoning.

Source: Pilan U