👉 The term "alter-infection" refers to a phenomenon where a change in the host's normal microbial flora, known as the normal microbiota, leads to an increased susceptibility to infection by pathogens. This can occur through various mechanisms, such as antibiotic use, which disrupts the balance of beneficial bacteria, allowing harmful microbes to proliferate. Other factors include immunosuppression, stress, or changes in diet and environment, all of which can alter the host's microbiome. When this microbial equilibrium is disturbed, opportunistic pathogens that are typically kept in check by the resident microbiota can invade and cause disease, effectively turning a normal, healthy state into an infectious condition.
