A face with a medical mask, conveying illness or a need for protection.
The 'face with medical mask' emoji depicts a face wearing a green or blue medical mask, often associated with illness, healthcare, and the need for protection against airborne diseases. It is commonly used to represent being sick, the flu, or the common cold, as well as to indicate a precautionary measure against viruses, including COVID-19. In broader contexts, it can also symbolize health awareness and the importance of hygiene.
Basic Information
Usage Scenario
To indicate that someone is feeling unwell.
To represent health precautions during an outbreak.
To express concern about a contagious illness.
Sentiment Analysis
Platform Variations
apple
On iOS, the emoji features a simple face with a light blue or green mask.
android
The Android version displays a cartoonish face with a bright mask, often with softer lines.
samsung
Samsung's rendition includes a more detailed face with a pronounced mask and expressive eyes.
microsoft
Microsoft's version portrays a similar face with a medical mask, with slightly different color tones.
Fun Facts
In Japan and some other Asian countries, wearing a mask is common even outside of illness, often as a courtesy to prevent spreading germs.
The emoji has seen a significant increase in usage during the COVID-19 pandemic, becoming a staple in health-related conversations.
Some people use this emoji humorously to indicate being overly cautious or to lighten the mood in discussions about health.
History
The face with medical mask emoji was introduced in Unicode 6.0 in 2010. It has evolved alongside increasing global health awareness and the rise of pandemics, becoming a prevalent symbol in digital communication.
Cultural Meaning
Globally, the face with medical mask emoji has gained significant cultural relevance, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. In many cultures, wearing a mask has become a symbol of care for oneself and others, showcasing a commitment to public health and safety. It serves as a reminder of the need for caution and hygiene in various social contexts.
Usage Stories
The face with medical mask emoji gained notoriety during the COVID-19 pandemic, symbolizing the global shift towards wearing masks in public spaces. Its use transcended mere representation of illness, becoming a rallying point for public health advocacy and collective responsibility.