A parasite that can cause weeks of gastrointestinal illness has sickened people in Massachusetts this summer, but health officials say the number of cases is not unusual for this time of year.
Massachusetts is one of 17 states reporting cases of illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The CDC’s data, updated through July 1, showed between one and 10 cases in Massachusetts. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health said it has received reports of 18 cases between May 1 and July 7, which is about the number the state typically sees each year.
Health officials said the illness is seasonal, and additional cases are expected to be reported because it can take time for people to become sick, seek medical care and receive a diagnosis…