While West Virginia as a whole is not among the most bed bug-infested states compared to major metropolitan areas, certain cities—especially in the larger, more populated regions—are experiencing bed bug challenges and have taken steps to address them. Notably, the Charleston-Huntington metropolitan area has appeared on recent national lists of cities with significant bed bug activity. However, specific details about five distinct West Virginia cities actively combatting a bed bug “onslaught” are not readily available in current rankings or news reports.
Based on available data and pest control company rankings, here’s what can be said:
Charleston-Huntington: This region has consistently appeared on national lists of bed bug hotspots, indicating a notable presence of bed bug activity and likely prompting local pest control efforts.
Other Major Cities: While Morgantown, Wheeling, Parkersburg, and Martinsburg are significant West Virginia cities, they are not specifically highlighted in recent national bed bug rankings. That said, bed bugs can appear in any city, and local extension offices, such as those run by West Virginia University, provide resources for identification and control.
Statewide Efforts: West Virginia University’s Extension Service offers free insect identification and guidance on bed bug control, including recommendations for both do-it-yourself and professional pest management.
Summary Table
| City/Region | Notable Bed Bug Activity | Local Resources/Efforts |
|---|---|---|
| Charleston-Huntington | Yes | Pest control services, public awareness |
| Morgantown | Not specified | WVU Extension, local pest control |
| Wheeling | Not specified | Local pest control |
| Parkersburg | Not specified | Local pest control |
| Martinsburg | Not specified | Local pest control |
Key Takeaway:
Only the Charleston-Huntington area is specifically recognized in national reports for bed bug activity. Other West Virginia cities may also face bed bug challenges, but there is no current evidence of a coordinated “onslaught” in five distinct cities. Statewide, residents have access to resources for identification, prevention, and treatment through local extension offices and pest control services.
Sources
[1] https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
[2] https://aantex.com/blog-post/top-50-bed-bug-cities-list/
[3] https://extension.wvu.edu/lawn-gardening-pests/pests/bed-bug
[4] https://www.lajaunies.com/americas-most-bed-bug-infested-cities/
[5] https://www.foxweather.com/learn/bed-bug-infested-cities-2024
