Testing for HIV can prevent the spread

NORTHAMPTON, Mass (WWLP) - Wednesday December 1st is World AIDS day. Tapestry Health is honoring the day with free HIV testing at locations throughout the Pioneer Valley for the entire week.

On Wednesday, they were at UMass Amherst testing college students for the disease.

With a simple swipe of one's cheek or a prick of the finger, students were able to get their results within 20 minutes.

Dennis Canty, of Tapestry Health, told 22News "There's a lot of research that indicates that 18 to 24 year old population has one of the highest growing rates of HIV infections. We want to come out to the colleges because it's a great way to get in touch with this population."

Canty said one in every three Massachusetts residents who have HIV doesn’t know it, and knowing your status is the best way to reduce the spread of HIV.

For more information about Tapestry Health’s HIV testing, click here .