City Notices: Health Advisories, Public Meetings, and Emergency Alerts
Health Advisory: Urgent Warning on Wild Mushroom Foraging
The San Francisco Department of Public Health, in coordination with the California Department of Public Health, has issued an urgent advisory regarding an unprecedented statewide outbreak of mushroom poisonings. Following recent heavy rains, there has been widespread growth of toxic Death Cap (Amanita phalloides) and Western Destroying Angel (Amanita ocreata) mushrooms. These species are easily mistaken for edible varieties but contain amatoxins that cause severe liver damage and can be fatal. Residents are strongly urged to avoid picking or consuming any wild mushrooms. As of late January, dozens of hospitalizations and several deaths have been reported across Northern California, including cases requiring liver transplants in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Public Meeting Notice: Assessment Appeals Board
The San Francisco Assessment Appeals Board No. 1 will convene for a scheduled meeting on Friday, January 23, 2026. The session is set to begin at 9:30 a.m. at City Hall, located at 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 405. These meetings are open to the public and provide a forum for property owners to appeal their property assessments. Agendas and supporting documentation are available for public inspection at the Board of Supervisors’ office. Residents attending in person are reminded that the use of mobile phones and other sound-producing electronic devices is prohibited during the proceedings.
Seasonal Health Alert: Elevated Respiratory Virus Activity
Health officials report that seasonal influenza activity remains elevated throughout the city and the state. Data indicates a rise in hospital admissions linked to the H3N2 subclade K flu strain. Additionally, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) activity is currently high, particularly affecting children and older adults. The Department of Public Health recommends that all eligible individuals receive updated vaccinations and seek timely testing if symptoms appear. Preventive care remains the most effective tool for reducing the risk of serious illness and hospitalizations during the winter peak.
Public Service: Super Bowl LX Emergency Notification System
In preparation for Super Bowl LX and its associated festivities, the City and County of San Francisco has activated a joint emergency alert system in partnership with San Mateo and Santa Clara counties. This unified tool is designed to provide residents and visitors with real-time notifications regarding public safety incidents, extreme weather, and significant traffic disruptions during the week leading up to the game. While the game will be held at Levi’s Stadium, numerous concerts and events are scheduled within San Francisco city limits. Registration for these specialized alerts is now open to ensure the public remains informed of unexpected road closures and transit delays.
Administrative Update: Health Service System Beneficiary Review
The San Francisco Health Service System (SFHSS) is observing Health Literacy Month throughout January 2026. As part of a transition to a new life and disability insurance provider, New York Life, all City and County of San Francisco employees are encouraged to confirm or update their beneficiary designations. SFHSS also reminds members who utilized Flexible Spending Accounts in 2025 that the deadline to submit receipts for reimbursement is fast approaching on March 31, 2026.
Facility Notice: City Hall Accessibility
Visitors to San Francisco City Hall are advised that the wheelchair lift at the Goodlett Place and Polk Street entrance is currently undergoing replacement to improve reliability. During this maintenance period, wheelchair-accessible entrances remain available on Van Ness Avenue and Grove Street. Accessible restrooms and elevators serve all floors of the building.