Which term refers to microbes that typically do not cause infections?

The term that refers to microbes that typically do not cause infections is "nonpathogens." Nonpathogenic microbes are usually found normally in the environment or within the human microbiota and play beneficial roles, such as aiding in digestion or protecting the body from harmful pathogens. These organisms are part of the body's natural flora and do not lead to disease under normal circumstances.

In contrast, pathogens are specific types of microbes that can cause disease and infections. Infectious agents is a broad term that encompasses various microbes, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, that have the capability to cause disease. Viruses are a specific category of infectious agents that can cause infection but are not applicable to the broader category of microbes that do not typically harm the host. Understanding the distinction between pathogenic and nonpathogenic organisms is crucial in infection control and maintaining a healthy microbiome.