What are transient microbiota?

Transient microbiota are microorganisms that do not normally live and reproduce in or on the human body. Although these types of organisms may colonize a host and reproduce briefly, the defenses of the human body do not allow them to become permanent.

Transient microbiota that have been picked up can be easily washed from the skin. In contrast, the normal microbiota cannot be cleansed from the skin during normal hand washing. The biggest danger posed by transient microbiota is their ability to enter the human body and cause disease. Normally, microorganisms enter the human body through natural ports of entry or breaks in the skin.