After more than 200 shots given, Catalina Island Medical Center's program of offering flu vaccines in the Post Office Arcade has come to a close for this year.

"We're extremely pleased with the response to the program," said Chief of Patient Care Services Doreen Macktal. "Every year this program grows and we'll definitely be offering it again next year."

For three weeks, nurses were stationed at the Post Office Arcade, offering flu vaccines during peak hours. "Offering this service allows us to bring health to the community," Macktal said. "I'm sure there were dozens of people who got a flu shot who might not have were it not for this program."

Although the medical center is no longer offering flu vaccines in the Post Office Arcade, vaccines are still available at Catalina Island Medical Group.

With flu season continuing into spring, a vaccine given now will still offer months of protection. "It's not too late to vaccinate," Macktal said. "The peak of flu season is still to come."

Catalina Island Medical Center's voucher program is also still available for those employers who would like to offer free vaccines to their employees. Five dozen local employees have already been immunized against the flu thanks to the program, which allows employers to distribute vouchers to their employees. Those employees can redeem the vouchers for a flu shot and the employer is billed. For more information on taking part in the program, contact Business Office Manager Michelle Jaeger at (310) 510-0700.

Free vaccines are available to those age 50 and older as well as children under five and individuals with certain health problems.

Appointments are not necessary to receive a flu vaccine. Catalina Island Medical Group is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and until 7 p.m. on Wednesday.