The Long Island Regional Poison and Drug Information Center (LIRPDIC) at Winthrop - University Hospital warns the public to avoid naturally occurring mushrooms, as they may be poisonous. Many local lawns and grassy areas are now populated with mushrooms as a result of the rainy spring season. The LIRPDIC reports there were 19 cases of mushroom poisonings in 2002 and so far, in 2003, there have already been 19 poisonings reported."This year's significant rainfall has produced an overabundance of mushrooms," said Thomas Caraccio, PharmD, manager of the LIRPDIC. "While many are not poisonous if consumed, there are a certain species of mushrooms, specifically known as chlorophyllum molybdites, which are poisonous. People should avoid eating any mushrooms that grow on lawns and in grassy areas to prevent a poisoning."Chlorophyllum Molybdites are found in grasslands during wet periods and are often mistaken for edible mushrooms. They are large and initially appear egg-shaped with a cap that measures seven to 10 centimeters across. They are dry, white and have scales that are tinged buff or cinnamon color. The flesh is white and firm and the gills have distinct shades of light to dark green. "Just one bite of this mushroom is enough to produce severe symptoms," said Caraccio. The primary symptoms exhibited by mushroom poisonings are gastrointestinal in nature. Victims experience nausea, vomiting, intense abdominal pain and diarrhea, which may become bloody. Symptoms typically begin within 30 minutes to two hours of ingestion.In the event of a possible poisoning, call the LIRPDIC at Winthrop at (516) 663-2650 or (516) 542-2323, or go to the nearest emergency room. The best defense is to avoid picking any mushrooms that grow in the wild," said Caraccio.
Basketball benefits neonatal unit
The Jump Start Foundation will be holding a Three-On-Three Basketball Tournament at the Island Garden, on Saturday, November 29. All proceeds will be donated to Mercy Medical Center's newly renovated Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which provides intensive medical care for premature and sick newborn babies. Contributions and volunteers are needed. To help children who need a "jump- start" on life, contact the Jump Start Foundation by e-mail at jumpstartonlife@aol.com or call Dr. Anthony Colantonio at (516) 746-3310
Volunteers needed
Mercy Medical Center's Volunteer Office is currently seeking volunteers for the Gift Shop to help serve visitors. They are also seeking volunteers for the Thrift Shop, located in Hempstead. This is a great opportunity for students and retirees. If you, or someone you know, might be interested in volunteering at Mercy, please call (516) 705-1391 for more information.
Free skin cancer screening
As part of its Health Education Series, South Nassau Communities Hospital in Oceanside is offering skin cancer screening on Wednesday, October 29 in the evening, by appointment only. Registration is limited. To make an appointment, or for more information, call the hospital's Department of Community Medicine at (516) 377-5333
