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B.C.’s chief medical health officer is firing back at critics of new flu shot rules.

Dr. Perry Kendall has announced healthcare workers must get immunized this flu season or else wear a mask to help protect patients.

Nurses and seniors' care providers have cried foul, claiming there has been no consultation.

Kendall says he suspects it might be somewhat of a knee-jerk reaction to what people may think is a mandatory vaccination.

“The policy is a mandatory one of protecting patients from influenza, but it isn't a mandatory influenza vaccination program because workers will have an opportunity to have the option of wearing a mask in patient care areas."

He adds the unions were informed two weeks ago about the new measures, with an offer to hear their concerns.