Times Square costumed characters chase tourists for hugs amid coronavirus

Not even the coronavirus can stop them.

Times Square’s costumed were still out in force on Tuesday — despite concerns about the spread of the potentially fatal virus — as the Naked Cowboy added a new accessory: a face mask.

The cast of creepy characters — including a giant panda — were seen demanding hugs from passerbys, with some even chasing down groups of people while holding their arms out.

“People are coming from all over the world and they’re hugging people- they’re transferring the virus. Someone is going to die,” said Keith White, 32, who watched as Cookie Monster and Luigi attempted to hug a group of tourists.

On 42nd Street and Seventh Avenue, Elmo was spotted pursuing after a family with two children — who were able to get away.

The furry fiend also tried to run down 19-year-old New Jersey resident Zuleika Sanchez with his arms open wide.

“It’s nasty. I get it’s their livelihood, but don’t chase after me,” Sanchez told The Post.

Robert Burck known as the original "Naked Cowboy" poses for photos wearing a mask in Times Square following the outbreak of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in New YorkRobert Burck known as the original "Naked Cowboy" poses for photos wearing a mask in Times Square following the outbreak of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in New Yorkcoronavirus-panda

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