Mosquitoes capable of transmitting  yellow fever have been found in the Golden State, The Associated Press reports.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is typically found in tropical and subtropical areas in South America and Africa. The virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.

The AP notes that mosquitoes were identified in the city of Fresno and in San Mateo County in the Bay Area in August.

Vector control agents are taking the mosquitoes very seriously.

“If it gets away it will change the way we live in California. You may not be able to sit on your patio and enjoy a cup of coffee during the day without getting bit,” Tim Phillips of the Fresno Mosquito and Vector Control District told The AP.

The CDC adds that most people with yellow fever have no illness or mild illness. Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, chills, severe headache, back pain, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and weakness. Approximately 15 percent of cases move to develop a more severe form of the disease. Symptoms of the severe form of the disease are high fever, jaundice, bleeding, and eventually shock and failure of multiple organs.

According to the CDC, no specific treatments have been identified to help people with yellow fever. However, yellow fever patients are typically hospitalized for care and close observation.

The Fresno County Health Department reports that the mosquito, while not native to California, is also an efficient carrier of diseases like dengue and chikungunya. No illnesses linked to this mosquito, known as Aedes aegypti, have been reported so far.

Aedes aegypti is a tiny, dark mosquito with white marking and banded legs. It typically bites during the day and usually bites indoors.

What do you think of this discovery? Sound off in the comments section.