A man suffered cuts to his mouth and nose when he was assaulted in broad daylight in East Kilbride town centre.
When police officers intervened, attacker Ronald Johnston coughed at them and warned they were "getting the coronavirus".
Johnston appeared at Hamilton Sheriff Court this week.
The 53-year-old admitted assaulting a man and two police officers in Cornwall Street on April 3, 2020.
An allegation that he robbed the victim of medication was deleted.
Johnston, of Uist Street, Govan, also admitted shouting threats and abuse.
Neil Thomson, prosecuting, said the assault happened at 5.15pm and the police were alerted by town centre CCTV operators.
He told the court: "The victim was approached by Johnston and remarks were made about a bag containing medication.
"Johnston then punched him on the face, causing him to fall. He was thereafter kicked on the head and body.
"He got to his feet and further punches landed on his face.
"Police officers arrived and witnessed the latter part of the assault.
"They intervened and could hear Johnston threatening to 'do in' the victim."
Mr Thomson said two female police officers arrived to assist their colleagues.
The fiscal added: "As the two officers approached, Johnston motioned his head towards them and began coughing in their direction.
"He remarked 'Aye, you're going to get the coronavirus'.
"Neither officer did contract the virus although his remarks caused them some concern."
Sheriff Thomas Millar deferred sentence until next month for background reports. Johnston was allowed to remain on bail.
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