BANGOR – The line outside the flu clinic stretched far, but for more than 200 people who waited patiently Wednesday afternoon, it was well worth their time if it meant avoiding the aches, pains and discomfort that come with influenza.

Cars filled the parking lot at the St. Joseph Healthcare Park and spilled out onto Broadway where a Bangor police officer directed the unexpected traffic congestion. Hospital officials estimate that 1,500 people passed through the clinic during the four hours it was open.

The heavy turnout wasn’t a surprise to Alicia Spellman-Mooney, R.N., and clinical director of nursing. She said that people are concerned this year about a repeat of last year’s vaccine shortage and are taking no chances.

Spellman-Mooney said that on Wednesday the clinic had 12,000 vaccination doses on hand with another 12,000 expected to arrive over the next few weeks.

Many in the line were senior citizens who have priority when it comes to receiving a shot because they are at more risk of being harmed by the virus, according to health officials. Others at risk are those with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or asthma. But no one was turned away Wednesday.

Spellman-Mooney said that flu cases start to appear near the end of November or early December, noting that it takes two weeks for the immunization to take full effect.

One elderly couple from Brewer said they waited 45 minutes to get a shot, but that it was a small price to pay to avoid the flu.

“He’s only got one lung, he has to have a flu shot,” the woman said about her husband.

Another woman found the long line intimidating.

“I give it 10 minutes and if I don’t get up toward the door, I’m going to go home,” said the woman who didn’t want to give her name. But after just a few minutes, the progress of the line gave her more confidence. “It’s moving pretty good, I’ll give it longer,” she said.

The clinics will continue at the St. Joseph Healthcare Park on Broadway [not the hospital] Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 3, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Wednesday, Nov. 7, from 4 to 8 p.m.; and Saturday, Nov. 10, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Individuals with Medicare Part B or Medicaid coverage should bring their cards with them to cover the charge of the vaccination. All others must pay $10 for the shot.