BALTIMORE (WJZ) — The World Health Organization is officially characterizing the COVID-19 virus a pandemic, they said Wednesday.

Though no one in Maryland has died from the virus, there are 12 cases in the state.

Governor Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency in Maryland so that MEMA and the state health department can ramp up coordination between state and local agencies.

Although the governor said this news is "not a reason to panic," he said residents should pay attention to information and be prepared. He also said Marylanders should go to work and schools like they normally do.

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Meanwhile, city officials said Wednesday they are on the move to prepare for a possible outbreak in Baltimore. 

They are currently working on plans to feed vulnerable populations in the event of an outbreak, including seniors who rely on delivered meals and children who rely on school meals.

Sick leave is also an issue, the city is set to release guidelines on more flexible and relaxed leave policies to keep themselves cared for.

For the latest information on coronavirus go to the Maryland Health Department's website or call 211. You can find all of WJZ's coverage on coronavirus in Maryland here.