SCP-049 is a humanoid entity, approximately 1.9 meters tall, resembling a medieval plague doctor. Its appearance includes robes and a ceramic mask, which have seemingly integrated into its form over time1, rendering its underlying structure nearly indistinguishable. X-rays reveal a humanoid skeleton beneath this exterior.

In the presence of individuals perceived as afflicted by the Pestilence, SCP-049 may become hostile, necessitating restraint. Left unchecked, it tends to terminate such subjects by inducing cessation of biological functions through skin contact. The process remains enigmatic; post-mortem examinations yield inconclusive results. SCP-049 displays remorse, often conducting crude surgeries using implements from a black doctor's bag carried at all times, attempting to combat the "Pestilence" with limited success, often leading to instances of SCP-049-2.