According to the Florida Department on Health in 2008 there was a 13-percent increase in HIV testing, and now folks around the state are hoping that number goes up in 2009.

Tuesday December 1st is World AIDS day and folks around the state are encouraging everyone to get tested.

More rural places, like Gadsden county, often have a difficult time getting residents to come out for tests in fear of the stigma that is often attached to people living with HIV or AIDS. But heath officials say, you need to know your status.

"It's about human rights, getting rid of the stigma, allowing people to come in and live with the disease, and be aware that you know, "I don't have to be ashamed, and I need to know my status'," said Keith blocker, an HIV prevention and training consultant.

"If more people are educated the right way they'll know about it and know to get tested and know how you can spread it and can not spread it," said Melinda Childress, a Gadsden County Resident.

There will be HIV testing in Gadsden County Saturday December 5th from 9 to noon at Carter Parramore Academy in Quincy.