mrsa which could be bad if they came in contact with an open wound. and one sample of the corona virus which is one of the causes of the common cold. >> staph, that makes me want to wash them or throw them away. >> staph? that's scary. >> i'm going to be more conscious about my gloves where i put them. >> every time your glove comes in contact, you're taking away some of the bacteria on that surface. >> but here's the good news. dr. whittier says on gloves, bacteria and viruses may not last long. in some cases, just hours and minutes. >> it's not going to be alive on the glove for very long because it has nothing to help it survive. >> don't keep them balled up in your pockets. let them air dry, wash them often and you can use a disinfectant wipe for certain fabrics. but -- >> the number one rule is always be conscious not to touch your face. >> ew. not doing that ever again. >> becky whirly, abc news, new york.