MILWAUKEE — Wisconsin is continuing to expand its COVID-19 vaccination access across the state.

Starting Monday, all Wisconsinites 16 and older are eligible to receive a vaccine. The announcement comes after health officials originally projected no later than May 1 to be the date for opening up eligibility to the general public. 

Gov. Tony Evers shared the news on Twitter.

The state has fully vaccinated more than one million people thus far. Prior to the general public, those with certain medical conditions, most essential workers, educators, adults 65 and older, and other specific groups were made eligible for the vaccinations.

“We knew all along our COVID-19 vaccination program would be a massive undertaking, and we’re proud Wisconsin is currently leading the country in these efforts and that we’re now able to give all Wisconsinites 16 and older the opportunity to get vaccinated,” Evers said. “This marks a major milestone in our state’s fight against this virus and gets us closer to overcoming this pandemic and bouncing back together. Thank you to all the folks in public health, vaccinators, and staff helping make this possible.”

The state has administered more than three million doses so far, more than half of the elderly population has been fully vaccinated.

While everyone will be eligible starting April 5, some areas of the state may have a higher demand for vaccinations and may have waitlists. Vaccine providers will prioritize anyone previously eligible such as public-facing essential workers and people with medical conditions, Evers said.

“We have built-up a strong network of vaccine providers across the state. Every community is different, some providers may have openings and others may have waitlists but I assure you that anyone who wants a vaccine will be able to get one in the coming weeks,” Wisconsin Department of Health Services secretary-designee Karen Timberlake said. “We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to reach 80% community immunity in Wisconsin.”

The announcement came after President Joe Biden said 90% of adults in the U.S. will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine by April 19.

To sign up for a COVID-19 vaccination appointment, click here.