PARK COUNTY, Mont. - 11 people were hospitalized after eating wild-foraged mushrooms, in what health authorities believe is an unintentional poisoning in Park County, Montana.
In a statement to NonStop Local, Montana Department of Health and Human Services Communications Director Jon Ebelt said 10 adults and one minor were transported to multiple Montana hospitals Monday evening after emergency responders received a call to a private residence in Park County for a suspected poisoning from mushrooms foraged in the area.
As of Tuesday evening, Ebelt said the 11, all from outside the Park Co. area, remained hospitalized with seven in serious condition, three in fair condition, and one in good condition.
Authorities believe the poisoning to be an isolated incident and there is no risk to the general public beyond those inherent in mushroom foraging. Ebelt said there is no indication that this incident is tied to any restaurants or grocery establishments.
Ebelt said a joint investigation into the incident is active and ongoing.
Statement from Jon Ebelt, Communications Director for the Montana Dept. of Health and Human Services:
Late in the evening of July 27, emergency responders were dispatched to a private residence in Park County following reports of a suspected unintentional poisoning involving mushrooms foraged in the local area.
A total of 11 individuals (10 adults and one minor), all visiting from outside the local area, were transported to multiple Montana hospitals for medical care. As of 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, all 11 individuals remain hospitalized, with 7 in serious condition, 3 in fair condition, and 1 in good condition.
Based on preliminary information, authorities believe this is an isolated incident, and there is no indication of an ongoing threat or risk to the general public beyond those inherent in mushroom foraging. There is no indication that this incident is tied to any restaurants or grocery establishments.
This remains an active and ongoing joint investigation. No further details are available at this time. Updates will be provided as verifiable information becomes available.