Guwahati: Meghalaya has faced a surge in mushroom poisoning incidents, with 27 cases reported so far in 2024, resulting in four deaths.
This resulted in growing concerns as in 2023, there were 40 cases but no fatalities.
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The National Health Mission (NHM) attributes this increase to the state’s diverse flora and abundance of wild mushrooms, coupled with a lack of knowledge on proper identification.
Accidental consumption of toxic fungi leads to severe health consequences.
The NHM has issued an advisory urging citizens against consuming wild mushrooms, especially if unsure of their type.
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Symptoms of poisoning include upset stomach, thirst, sweating, hallucinations, coma, and liver damage.
The advisory emphasizes caution when collecting mushrooms, as they can absorb toxins from the environment.
The rise in cases is particularly concerning, with families in West Jaintia Hills and Ri Bhoi suffering devastating losses.
Three children and an adult from the same family in Saphai village died after consuming poisonous mushrooms.
Similarly, a three-year-old boy lost his life in Saiden village, with four others critically ill.