Flea infestation shuts down Surf City’s Beach Access No. 25

SURF CITY, N.C. (WECT) - Surf City closed Public Beach Access No. 25 on Tuesday, July 14, after town staff discovered a flea infestation in the area, officials announced.

A visitor’s report prompted town staff to investigate, leading to the discovery of the infestation. Officials said they responded immediately.

Unlike sand fleas commonly found at beaches, the fleas identified at the access point are the type typically associated with pets.

“We don’t know how they got there at this point. The source of the infestation is unknown,” said Ashley Riffle, the town’s public information officer.

Surf City said Monday they are treating the area with Bifen, also known as Bifenthrin, a powerful, man-made pesticide used to control fleas, ticks, and other insects.

Crews are applying Bifen in both liquid and granulated forms around the access area, including near sand and shoreline, according to Riffle.

Bifen is highly toxic to fish and aquatic life and is considered a PFAS, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The town’s spokesperson said she was not aware of Bifen’s toxicity to aquatic life when asked and said she would follow up.

It is unclear whether the application method used meets recommended guidelines for use near water. WECT has reached out to Surf City officials and state pesticide officials for further clarification.

Riffle said the town has not set a timeline for reopening the access point.

“We don’t know how long it’s gonna take before we can reopen that beach access, but we want to make sure it’s safe for everyone before we do,” Riffle said.

Public Beach Access No. 25 will remain closed until further notice.

This is a developing story.