When students return from winter break, Chicago Public Schools requires them to take COVID tests.

Officials with the Chicago Public Schools have asked parents and students to take COVID-19 precautions when they return to school on Monday.

Before returning to class, CPS has required students to take rapid COVID-19 tests.

If people need to take a test, CPS said Chicago public libraries have a limited supply.

Officials in the district are also encouraging students to wear masks to help prevent the spread of upper respiratory infections.

According to the CDC, COVID-19 transmission has been elevated to a medium risk level in Cook County and many of its surrounding counties.

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot recently stated that if Cook County reaches a high transmission level, the city may issue a mask advisory. Some local hospitals are bracing for an influx.

City officials continue to encourage people to get the bivalent booster, and some local doctors believe it’s past time to reinstate home testing as a regular practice.

All of this becomes more pressing as students return from a two-week winter break likely filled with family gatherings.