PORTLAND, Maine (AP) The wait is almost over for many Maine residents who have been anxious to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.

The state is set to open up eligibility Wednesday to everyone 16 and over. Maine is one of dozens of states around the country that is expanding access to the vaccines this month.

Supplies in the state remain limited, and not everyone will be able to get vaccinated right away.

The state is operating a pre-registration system for residents who want to get in line. Numerous health care providers around the state are also operating their own registration systems.

Maine previously opened up access to the vaccine to everyone 50 and older. Teachers and frontline health care workers have also been able to receive the vaccine.