We want to provide an update on an exposure to COVID-19 within our Abbey Delray community. We learned Wednesday that one of our residents has contracted the virus. This independent living resident is quarantined in their home and is under the care of medical professionals

We realize that this situation is concerning to you, and we are committed to being open and transparent, while respecting the privacy of those involved, as we deal with this unprecedented situation. We are implementing our pre-planned infection control protocols and continue to follow COVID-19 protocols at our community under the guidance of the health agencies.

Additionally, Abbey Delray has activated an emergency response team, and we are working with health and infectious disease experts to take all appropriate steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to protect our residents, team members and the greater community. We will also continue to follow all CDC recommendations related to the control and prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

We know that the COVID-19 pandemic is of the utmost concern to you. We have been diligent and have taken precautions to help our community minimize the risk of exposure to the virus. Those precautions include following protocols for long-term care and senior living communities such as requiring the use of appropriate personal protective equipment, as well as encouraging residents and team members to use hand sanitizer and wash their hands frequently. We have restricted gatherings in communal areas and individual apartments, and have suspended all private and public gatherings, including communal dining. We have also restricted visitors and continue to monitor essential caregivers who visit our community.

You should continue to practice social distancing; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; and disinfect objects you touch frequently, like your cellphone, using household cleaning wipes. If any of our residents has or is suspected of having the virus, appropriate isolation protocols will be implemented. If you are experiencing any symptoms such as a fever, cough or shortness of breath, you should contact your doctor and the Abbey Delray director of nursing immediately.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Abbey Delray management team. For media inquiries, please email Amanda L. Davis at Amanda.l.davis@lifespacecommunities.com.

The Florida Department of Health offers further information for assisted living centers and preventing the spread of COVID-19.