A student from Mexico City, whose mother was taken to hospital after she was infected with the A (H1N1) flu, tells us how he's getting through the ordeal. 

Mexican authorities have reported 9 confirmed deaths form the influenza A (H1N1) epidemic, though adding that more than 170 people are suspected to have died from the flu over the past week.

Alfonso Quiroz, 24, is a student from the city. His mother is 58.

My mother has been in hospital for two weeks now. I'm only allowed very short visits, a few minutes each day: hospital rules are very strict. When I go there, I'm given a sterile face mask and have to disinfect my hands before and after the visit.

My mother is medicated through a drip in her arm, but I don't know with which drugs exactly. Her state is still worrying, but I'm under the impression that the treatment is beginning to have some effect. She has just been transferred to another unit in the hospital though I don't know whether it's a good or bad sign. Doctors don't tell me enough, it's hard to get clear answers from the hospital administration. I have no idea when my mother will be able to leave the hospital. I am very worried, although I know there are some cases worse than her's.

I'm personally very careful now. I wear a mask in public as much as possible. My mother probably caught the virus in the street, so you never know. My classes have been cancelled until May 5, at least that's what I've heard. I still take the metro and bus, though, I have no other choice".