CHICAGO has been invaded by packs of infected coyotes which are being dubbed zombie dogs.

Cops are warning worried locals to keep their pets indoors to stop the disease spreading.

2 'Zombie dogs' have been seen roaming Chicago Credit: Facebook / Hanover Park Police Dept

A spokesman from Hanover Park Police Department posted on Facebook that the nocturnal coyotes are infected with sarcoptic mange, which causes them to be active in the day.

The message said: “Recently we have received several messages and posts from citizens concerned about what appear to be malnourished or neglected stray dogs.

"These are NOT lost pets, but are in fact coyotes.

"There is unfortunately an increase in sarcoptic mange in the urban coyote populations which has caused these normally noctural animals to become more active during the day.

"These infected animals are not normally aggressive, but should be avoided at all times.

"Please DO NOT approach these animals or allow your pets to approach them.

2 A warning was posted on Facebook by Hanover Park Police Department who told locals not to approach the infected animals Credit: Facebook / Hanover Park Police Dept

"You can avoid attracting them to your yards and neighbourhoods by not leaving food out and by securing your garbage."

The infected animals will suffer hairloss and develop secondary infections, turning it into "some sort of 'zombie' dog, the police spokesman added.

The infections affect their vision, causing them to look for food during the daylight hours.

Coyotes are often spotted in Illinois, especially in the southern, southeastern and west-central parts.

There has never been a reported case of coyotes biting humans in northeastern Illinois.

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