The rise in dengue cases poses a health risk to residents in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, particularly those spending time outdoors during the day. The disease is not directly contagious between humans but can spread through mosquito bites. Residents are advised to take precautions as the Aedes mosquitoes are active during daylight hours and can breed in small amounts of standing water. The illness can cause severe discomfort and, in rare cases, lead to complications requiring medical attention.