Final answer:
The indigenous intestinal microbiome assists in controlling gastrointestinal infections by competing with and preventing colonization by pathogens like norovirus and hepatitis A virus, which can otherwise cause gastroenteritis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The indigenous intestinal microbiome plays a critical role in controlling infection by competing with pathogenic viruses and bacteria and preventing their colonization. This protective role is particularly important in the context of gastrointestinal infections, where the microbiota can prevent illnesses by mechanisms such as colonization resistance.
Viruses such as norovirus and hepatitis A virus are common causes of viral gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting. While treatment generally involves rehydration therapy, gut bacteria can help in managing and preventing such infections.
Bacteria in the gut can also protect against certain viral infections by maintaining a balanced microbiome. This balance is disrupted when antibiotics are used inappropriately, illustrating the importance of a healthy gut microbiome in preventing infections from pathogenic viruses.