NORWICH – In observance of World AIDS Day, Family Planning of South Central New York will offer free confidential rapid HIV testing and counseling in Norwich all week, from November 26 to November 30.

Family Planning of South Central New York said in a release, "Today, when it comes to knowing your HIV status, testing has never been quicker and easier."

World AIDS Day is observed annually on December 1. Family Planning will offer free fourth generation rapid HIV testing at its five local health centers in Norwich (5 Cortland Street), Oneonta (37 Dietz Street), Binghamton (117 Hawley Street), Sidney (37 Pleasant Street), and Walton (130 North Street). The Sidney and Walton locations will only offer testing on Tuesday and Wednesday respectively.

The fourth generation test can pick up an HIV infection 17 days after contraction, which is almost four weeks earlier than the previous test. Results for the test are ready in 20 minutes after a painless finger prick for a drop of blood.