I URGE anyone who is hesitating, for whatever reason, about getting a flu jab, to get one.

I know from personal experience just how dreadful real flu is.

Back in 1968, I was an engineer officer on the SS Makrana.

We were loading explosives in the River Thames and, while on watch, I started feeling decidedly off-colour.

I reported to the chief steward, who was our medical officer.

After taking my temperature and giving me a liberal dose of aspirin, he told me to retire to my cabin and turn in. He said he would look-in on me later.

My condition rapidly deteriorated.

The chief steward duly looked-in on me and immediately sent for a doctor who, after examining me, said it could be Hong Kong flu (which was rife at that time), but there was no doubt at all it was flu.

He prescribed various medicines which, over a few days, had me on the way to recovering. However, it was several days before I was able to resume my duties.

I was very ill and there is little doubt that if I hadn’t been young and fit, I may well have succumbed to this dreadful disease.

I am 80 next month and have just had my flu jab. I urge anyone who is wondering whether or not to have a jab to have one.

Philip Roe, Roman Avenue South, Stamford Bridge