A Review of Molecular Methods for Viral Detection in Water and Future Public Health Perspectives

Safe water is essential for public health, but environmental waters frequently contain viral contaminants. Molecular detection methods, particularly Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-based approaches, have transformed water quality monitoring by providing rapid and sensitive analysis without the need for cultivation. This review focuses on two major technologies: quantitative PCR (qPCR) and digital PCR (dPCR). qPCR remains widely used for virus surveillance, source tracking, and infectivity assessments, while dPCR offers absolute quantification, improved tolerance to inhibitors, and greater precision for low-level targets. Both methods require quantitative criteria for performance evaluation and face some challenges, including matrix inhibition, lack of viability confirmation, and the need for standardized workflows. Future progress is expected through improved robustness, more efficient sample processing, enhanced multiplexing, and integration with risk modeling and viability assays. Continued reductions in cost and gains in throughput may broaden access to dPCR, and the complementary use of qPCR and dPCR can further strengthen water quality surveillance and public health protection.