Big Sky Times

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is cautioning the public about the consumption of morel mushrooms, particularly during the spring foraging season. The warning comes after an outbreak of gastrointestinal illness in 2023 that affected 51 individuals, resulting in three hospitalizations and two deaths. Symptoms of the illness included diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain, occurring shortly after consuming raw or undercooked morels.

"While outbreaks and illnesses linked to the consumption of morels may seem rare, it is possible they occur more frequently than public health professionals or medical providers realize because symptoms may not be severe enough to cause individuals to seek care," the DPHHS stated. The lack of awareness about the potential risks of morels could contribute to underreporting of such incidents.

To stay safe while handling morel mushrooms, the DPHHS advises Montanans to take precautions when foraging, purchasing, or consuming these fungi. In case of illness after consuming morels, individuals are urged to contact their healthcare provider immediately or reach out to the Poison Control Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Healthcare providers are also encouraged to report any suspected morel mushroom poisonings to local or tribal health departments.

For additional information on morel mushrooms, the DPHHS has introduced a dedicated web page.