MEXICANS living in Oxford have spoken of their fears for friends and family following the outbreak of swine flu.

Photographer Sabel Carrillo said a cousin living in Mexico City had contracted the deadly virus and had struggled to find treatment.

Mr Carrillo, 36, who runs Studio Blanco, in Cowley Road, said: “She could not find medication living in the capital and had to go elsewhere to find it.

“Fortunately, she’s recovering but it’s a very confusing situation. People are still going to work but all the schools, cinemas and sports venues are closed and it’s obviously very worrying.”

Mr Carrillo added that members of his family had told him they wore face masks every time they went out, including visiting the supermarket to stock up on food.

But at the moment Mr Carrillo has no intention of going back to his native country.

“Obviously, if there’s a serious situation with my family, then I will go back. But at the moment I think I’m better off here.”

Students Eugenio de la Mora and Azucena Jimenez Corona, both 28, are studying at Oxford University’s Department of Biochemistry as part of their PhD courses under the supervision of Prof Elspeth Garman, who is working on development of drugs to attack the structure of the flu virus.

Mr de la Mora said: “I’m concerned about my friends and family, although at the moment they are okay.

“When I heard the news it was a big shock to me but hopefully it is more under control now.

“There will be a big economic impact, as all the restaurants and and public transport are closed. It has been a big change and people are having to adapt to it but hopefully the situation will improve in the next week.”

Ms Corona added: “It’s a big worry for everyone at home.”

An Oxford University spokesman said there were currently two undergraduate students and 51 postgraduate students from Mexico taking courses in the city.

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