noun
pathogenic microbe; disease-causing microorganism
Technical term used in medicine, biology, and public health to refer to bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other microorganisms that can cause disease.
この研究では、病原微生物の感染経路を調べています。
This research investigates the transmission routes of pathogenic microbes.
手洗いは病原微生物から身を守る基本的な方法です。
Handwashing is a basic way to protect yourself from pathogenic microorganisms.
Compound of 病原 (pathogen, cause of disease) + 微生物 (microorganism). The term is a straightforward technical coinage from these Sino-Japanese elements.