A microorganism that rarely causes disease is referred to as a what?

A microorganism that rarely causes disease is referred to as a non-pathogen. This term is used to categorize organisms that do not typically result in infection or illness in healthy individuals. Non-pathogens can be a normal part of the human microbiome, playing beneficial roles, such as aiding digestion or providing protection against pathogens.

Understanding the distinction between non-pathogens and pathogens is crucial in microbiology and clinical settings, as it shapes how health professionals approach infection control, treatment options, and the overall assessment of microbial populations in various environments. Pathogens, on the other hand, are microorganisms that can cause disease, while antigens refer to substances that the immune system recognizes as foreign, and viruses are specific types of pathogens.