Assam: 13 Dead After Consuming Poisonous Mushroom In Four Districts

According to Prashant Dihingia, superintendent of AMCH, all the victims died while undergoing treatment.

Harvested mushrooms (File photo: AFP)

New Delhi: At least 13 people have died in Assam after consuming poisonous forest mushrooms in four districts of Assam on Wednesday. The victims were admitted to Assam Medical College and Hospital in Dibrugarh, as reported by news agency ANI.

According to Prashant Dihingia, superintendent of AMCH, all the victims died while undergoing treatment.

"13 people including a minor died due to consumption of poisonous mushroom in last seven days. Total 39 patients were admitted to the hospital from four districts of the Upper Assam region out of which 13 people died," Dr Dihingia said.

The victims were from Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Sivasagar and Charaideo districts, he further said.

"Most of them are from tea garden areas. Many people from the Upper Assam region fall ill after eating poisonous mushrooms every year," Dr Dihingia added.

Mushrooms contain nutrients like vitamin B, D, potassium, copper, iron, fiber, and selenium which are beneficial for our health. There are many species of mushrooms available in the market. But while buying mushrooms it is very important to identify them properly or else they can prove to be harmful to our health. 

While buying a mushroom, check its upper part (umbrella). If it has small spots or blemishes on it then do not buy it. 

If the mushroom smells like rotten or wet wood, avoid consuming it. Along with this, if the mushroom smells sweet, then do not buy such mushrooms.