Faced with the increase in the number of poisoning cases linked to the consumption of mushrooms, the health authorities are sounding the alarm.
In the last two weeks, the number of poisoning from poisonous mushroom species has exploded in France: 181 have been recorded, against only 15 to 50 per week from July to the end of August. Faced with this upsurge in cases, the National Health Security Agency (ANSES) and the Directorate General of Health (DGS) alert picking enthusiasts and recall the best practices to be observed in a joint press release.
“These poisonings result, in the majority of cases, from confusion with edible mushrooms, hence the importance of remaining vigilant, whether one is a connoisseur or one practices picking punctually”, warn Friday. health authorities.
“The consequences on health can be serious (severe digestive disorders, liver damage that may require a transplant), even fatal. Five serious cases have been recorded since July ”, they underline.
Key recommendations
They recommend that you only collect mushrooms that you know perfectly well, some highly toxic poisonous species very similar to other edible ones; not to consume the harvest in case of doubt before having it checked by a specialist (pharmacists or local mycology associations and societies). The health authorities add that mushrooms should not be picked near polluted sites (roadsides, industrial areas, landfills), and advise separating them by species “to avoid mixing pieces of poisonous mushrooms with edible mushrooms. », And never offer picked mushrooms to young children.
The Agency also recommends taking pictures of your harvest before cooking and consuming it. A good reflex that can be useful for the doctor to choose the treatment in case of poisoning.
“If one or more symptoms appear (in particular diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, tremors, dizziness, visual disturbances, etc.) following consumption of wild mushrooms, immediately call 15 or poison control center in your region ”, finally remind ANSES and the DGS.
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