More front-line essential workers in Group 3 will be eligible for COVID-19 vaccinations starting Wednesday, Gov. Roy Cooper said.

State officials say the announcement follows the Johnson & Johnson one-shot vaccine’s approval, which is expected to increase North Carolina’s supply.

“The state and our providers continue to work extremely hard to get people vaccinated in a way that’s fast and fair,” Cooper said in a Tuesday news conference. “The third vaccine and improving vaccine supply will help us get more people vaccinated more quickly. Our essential front-line workers have remained on the job throughout this pandemic, and I am grateful for their work.”

While there still isn’t enough vaccine for everyone, state health officials say supply increases allowed providers to report that they’re ready to expand access to additional Group 3 essential workers.

Essential workers subset groups include public safety workers and employees in farming and agriculture, manufacturing, essential goods and transportation.

State officials said some vaccine providers may not be ready to open to front line essential workers Wednesday if they are still experiencing high demand for vaccines in Groups 1, 2 and 3.

Cooper also laid out a timeline for Group 4 vaccinations. Those who are at higher risk from COVID-19 due to underlying medical conditions will be eligible to receive the vaccine beginning March 24, along with people in certain congregate living settings.

“We are always happy to be able to expand to other groups because it means more immunity in the Wilson community,” Wilson County Health Director Teresa Ellen said. “We have seen a decline in the demand for those 65 and older and we have been very successful with vaccinating that group. In the days and weeks ahead, we will continue to be flexible and continue planning as we expand vaccinations. This is all a natural part of vaccinating our population, and we appreciate everyone’s patience. As a reminder, other providers continue to come online to offer the vaccine, and citizens will need to check with those providers for availability.”