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CHARLOTTE – The Centers for Disease Control rolled out new guidelines to help schools deal with H1N1 once class is back in session.

"We have to prepare for the worst," said Education Secretary Arne Duncan. "The honest answer is we don't know how bad this is going to be. We want to be absolutely prepared."

The CDC now recommends isolation to anyone with symptoms for three to five days, instead of its first suggestion of seven days.

"It's logical, sensible and I think it gives parents and employers something to hang their hat on to what should be done as we approach the flu season," said Dr. Stephen Keener, with the Mecklenburg County Health Department.

Districts across the state are taking cues from the health department and CDC on how to handle any possible cases. But many have yet to outline a specific plan.

"I can't give what our specific plan is because I haven't been through that briefing yet," said CMS Superintendent Dr. Peter Gorman on Thursday.

The CDC doesn't anticipate closing schools completely because of H1N1, but that wasn't the case last school year. A school in South Carolina shut its doors to help prevent an H1N1 outbreak.

"We're taking steps to make sure that children and teachers are as safe and secure as possible when schools open," said Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.

The CDC says the H1N1 and influenza season is unpredictable, and current recommendations could always change.

The center anticipates an H1N1 vaccination will be available in October.