Maryland governor announces more steps due to coronavirus

HANOVER, Md. (AP) — Maryland’s health benefit exchange is establishing a special enrollment period for health insurance because of the coronavirus, Gov. Larry Hogan announced Wednesday.

Hogan made the announcement during a news conference to provide an update on actions the state is taking in response to the virus.

State officials also have begun preliminary discussions about potentially holding the April 28 primary election by mail, if it were to become necessary.

The Motor Vehicle Administration will start an all-appointments system to eliminate walk-ins and reduce crowds, the governor said.

Maryland’s corrections department also is stopping visits for people in infirmaries and conducting visits by video.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.