HAGERSTOWN

Thousands of clinics nationwide offered free testing in an effort to stop the spread of HIV and Aids, which has killed more than 25- million people. Our area is no exception. "The sooner people are tested, the sooner we can get them into treatment, and the healthier and longer theyll live," said Judith Friend, Executive Director of the Aids Network. Every year, there are more than 40,000 new cases of HIV in the U.S. and to date, West Virginia has records of more than 2,000 residents being infected. Statistics show half of new infections are in those between the ages of 13 and 24. The Aids Network Office in Martinsburg said they tested more than a dozen people on Tuesday alone. However, most of their clientele are between ages 40 and 60. "Its a disease thats no respecter of age, race, sexual orientation, eco, socio, economical- nothing. It doesnt matter. Everybody is susceptible if you put yourself at risk," said Friend. Unprotected sex or injecting drugs are the most common ways to contract the disease. Along with advanced medical treatments, testing has also become more state-of-the-art. "Its an oral test, so its non-invasive. Its totally painless, takes about two minutes, and you get the results in about a week," said Friend. Knowledge is power and theres no reason to not be tested. "It should be a part of everybodys health maintenance to be tested just so they know for sure; their status," said Friend. The Aids Network Office in Martinsburg does the testing year-round for free. You can also go to your local county health department. However, youre likely to have blood drawn as opposed to the oral test. The Aids Network will test anyone 14-years or older. Teens do not need their parents permission. Reported by Angela Bohon" Man Nabbed After Allegedly Trying to Abduct Girl,1151447216,1151447216,"WASHINGTON COUNTY, MD- Police are crediting a 13-year old girl for helping catch the man who allegedly tried to abduct her.