Mucarsel-Powell Calls For Transparency And Regular Testing Of Frontline Staff Following COVID-19 Outbreak At Keys Senior Living Facility

Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (FL-26), former Associate Dean of Florida International University's (FIU) College of Health, released the following statement following reports of a COVID-19 outbreak at a senior living facility in the Upper Keys:

"My heart is with those who tested positive for COVID-19 at this Keys senior living facility and their families. I have been in contact with families who have relatives at this facility and they are unacceptably being left in the dark. Senior living facilities have a responsibility to inform residents and their families of COVID-19 cases," said Mucarsel-Powell. "As I monitor developments, I've asked the Florida Department of Health to ensure they are contact tracing to prevent any further spread and for regular testing of frontline staff at hospitals and senior living and assisted care facilities. I'm checking in with local hospitals and nursing homes to ensure they have the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) to respond to an increase in positive COVID-19 cases. For those worried about testing, Florida Surgeon General Scott Rivkees assured me last week that anyone who wants to get tested can get tested at walk-up and drive-thru locations. I am urging anyone in my community who has issues getting tested to contact me immediately."

Mucarsel-Powell joins administrators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities across the state in calling for regular testing of staff. Last month, Mucarsel-Powell sent a letter to Florida Surgeon General Rivkees urging him to also prioritize the safety of those with disabilities living in assisted living communities.

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