The term "influenza gene" refers to a specific part of the influenza virus that carries information for producing proteins. It is like a set of instructions that helps the virus make copies of itself, causing the flu. Full definition
«This unique approach will make it easier to evaluate how new mutations affect influenza pathogenicity and help to identify the underlying properties that enable or restrict influenza gene segment reassortment,» says Robert Daniels, the lead researcher from Stockholm University. (sciencedaily.com)
In early 2009, a novel influenza A (H1N1) virus appeared in humans, containing a unique combination of influenza genes which had not previously been identified in animals or people. (sciencedaily.com)