Molecular Techniques for Influenza Virus Identification and Typing: A Comprehensive Review

The development of molecular testing techniques has transformed the diagnosis of influenza viruses by tackling the problems caused by zoonotic spillovers, genetic reassortment, and antigenic drift. Direct use of molecular techniques to clinical data is crucial for influenza virus surveillance and diagnosis. Many laboratories now use molecular diagnostic techniques that enable prompt and precise influenza diagnosis. Even quicker detection of viral infections, including influenza viruses, in clinical samples should be possible with the combination of real-time PCR and automated nucleic acid purification. Rapid and precise identification and subtyping of influenza viruses is essential for surveillance, outbreak management, diagnosis, and treatment. This is further highlighted by the 2009 pandemic of the H1N1 of swine origin and the ongoing spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza A virus H5N1. Even though they are fundamental, traditional techniques including virus isolation, the hemagglutination inhibition test, and the microneutralization assay are time-consuming and slow. Viral genomic material can be detected quickly and with unparalleled accuracy thanks to the great sensitivity and specificity of molecular techniques like RT-PCR, the current gold standard. Advances in molecular diagnostics, like as digital PCR, real-time quantitative PCR, and isothermal techniques like LAMP, improve the accessibility and effectiveness of detection. New technologies like electrochemical biosensors and CRISPR-based instruments offer quick, portable outbreak control solutions sanger sequencing and next-generation sequencing are two methods that provide thorough genomic insights that are essential for vaccine development and surveillance. Digital platform advancements, like as GISAID, facilitate phylogenetic analysis and worldwide data exchange, strengthening pandemic preparedness. By connecting laboratory capabilities with field applications for efficient influenza surveillance and control, these technologies continue to influence the diagnostic landscape despite obstacles related to cost and accessibility. This review cover most widely used molecular methods for testing and detecting influenza viruses as well as digital influenza management tools.