The presence of normal bacteria and fungi adapted for living in, and characteristic of, the area considered (e.g., skin, intestine, or vagina).
Bacteria that are expected and healthy in the body.
Microorganisms including bacteria, protozoa, and fungi that are found on or in specific areas of the body. The skin and mucous membranes of the oral cavity, intestines, upper respiratory tract, and vagina have specific, permanent flora. They are harmless, even beneficial, in their usual sites, and they inhibit the growth of pathogens, but they can cause infection if they are introduced into unusual sites. If the proportions of the various microorganisms are disrupted, one species may overgrow, as does Candida when bacterial flora are diminished by antibiotics.
The amalgamation of microorganisms that is typically present at distinct anatomical locations within the body.