Mushroom Poisoning of 1151 People in Iran; the Lessons Learnt: A Brief Report of Cases and the Literature Review

Abstract

Background: In Spring 2018, due to intense rainfalls in Iran, plenty of mushrooms had grown, some of which were poisonous and their consumption had induced poisoning in people of different provinces; 1151 mushroom poisoning cases were reported within 25 days from 12 May to 9 July 2018. Objectives: This study aimed to address this issue from the public health perspective. The study further aimed at reporting the mortality and morbidity associated with mushroom poisoning and ascertaining the reasons behind the increase in the numbers of the affected persons. Methods: This report was based on the review of official reports and a field assessment in the areas affected by mushroom poisoning in the western part of Iran. Results: There were 1151 mushroom poisoning cases, out of which 1133 (98.4%) were hospitalized, and unfortunately, 18 (1.56%) died. Kermanshah province had the highest rate of mushroom poisoning casualties, out which seven people died. A total of 12 provinces were affected. Conclusions: Lack of knowledge of local people about the types of mushroom and their inability to differentiate between the toxic and non-toxic mushrooms, as well as lack of a swift and convenient immediate warning system has caused this incident of massive mushroom poisoning. However, planning and proper management can help to resolve these problems.