School is just about to start for children across the tri-state. Along with new backpacks and clothes -- are new COVID-19 guidelines and a bit of confusion for parents.

News 12's Elizabeth Hashagen was joined by Dr. Christina Johns, pediatric emergency care physician and senior medical advisor for PM Pediatric Care.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released updated recommendations largely loosening virus protocols and leaving much of the decision-making to individuals and local officials.

For the start of school this year, it may very well feel more like the days before the COVID-19 pandemic, as the school system rolls back restrictions, including an end to in-school PCR testing and the requirement that families fill out a daily health screening form.

The changes reflect the CDC shift toward learning how to live with the virus instead of allowing it to disrupt life.

The agency no longer recommends that people stay 6 feet away from others or that people who are exposed to COVID-19 quarantine at home, although it recommends that they still wear a mask for 10 days.

Students and staff are encouraged to take two tests on Day Four and Day Five after their exposure, at least 24 hours apart. The Education Department's guidelines reflect those of the CDC: People who have been exposed should monitor their symptoms for 10 days and wear a mask for that time.

Students and staff members who experience symptoms such as a cough, fever or sore throat should head home and get tested immediately, the CDC said. For people who are at risk of getting severely ill from COVID-19, the agency recommends consulting their doctor.

The CDC recently changed the answer. Those who test positive should isolate at home for at least five days. Afterward, isolation depends on whether they continue to exhibit symptoms or test positive for the virus. Around 95% of the population has some immunity due to a combination of vaccination and past infections, according to Greta Massetti, a senior epidemiologist at the CDC.

Students and staff members sick with the virus don't have to get a negative test result to end isolation, but it could shorten the number of days they should wear a mask after getting sick. But generally, the CDC recommends students and staff continue wearing a mask for 10 days after symptoms began to show.

Polio risk is low, because vaccination against polio is required to attend schools in New York state, New Jersey and Connnecticut. Children under 5 and infants are most at risk of being infected by polio if they have not been vaccinated.

At least five children had been diagnosed with monkeypox by early August, but the illness has primarily spread among adults. Attending school is unlikely to put people at risk of a monkeypox exposure.