Measles scare forces 28 people to remain on Scientology ship docked in Curacao
- Group is required to stay on the 440-feet Freewinds ship until May 13 because they are still at risk of contracting measles
Authorities in Curacao announced Saturday that 17 crew members and 11 passengers must stay aboard a ship owned by the Church of Scientology that is under quarantine following a confirmed case of measles.
Dr Izzy Gerstenbluth said the group is required to stay on the 440-feet Freewinds ship until May 13 because they are still at risk of contracting measles after a female crew member contracted the disease.
He said the remaining crew members and passengers, which totalled 318, are free to leave the ship.
“They are not a threat to anyone any more, and they cannot become sick any more,” he said.
Church officials have not returned messages seeking comment. According to the church’s website, the ship is the home of “a religious retreat ministering the most advanced level of spiritual counselling.”