Do You Capitalize Chickenpox? Unveiling the Capitalization Conundrum
The definitive answer is no, you generally do not capitalize chickenpox in standard writing. It’s a common noun referring to a disease, not a proper noun like a person’s name or a specific place.
Understanding Capitalization Rules: A Foundation
Knowing when to capitalize can significantly impact the clarity and professionalism of your writing. While some rules are straightforward, medical terms like chickenpox often present a challenge. This section explores the basic capitalization rules relevant to this disease name.
- Proper Nouns: These refer to specific, unique entities (e.g., John Smith, Paris, The Eiffel Tower). They are always capitalized.
- Common Nouns: These refer to general categories or classes of things (e.g., dog, city, disease). They are typically not capitalized, unless they begin a sentence or appear in a title following title case rules.
- Titles and Headings: Capitalization in titles and headings follows specific style guides (e.g., AP, Chicago, MLA). Generally, major words are capitalized, while minor words (articles, prepositions, conjunctions) are not.
Chickenpox: A Common Noun
Chickenpox, technically varicella, is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Because it’s a general term for this common illness, it is considered a common noun. Therefore, in most contexts, it should be written in lowercase.
However, there are exceptions:
- Beginning of a Sentence: Like any word, chickenpox would be capitalized if it is the first word of a sentence.
- Titles and Headings: In titles and headings, capitalization depends on the style guide being used. Some style guides would capitalize it, while others would not. For instance, in AP style it would not be capitalized unless it starts the title. In title case, it would be.
- Specific Research Contexts: Certain scientific publications or highly technical contexts might use capitalization for specific types or strains of the virus or disease, although this is rare.
When is it Varicella and When is it Chickenpox?
The terms varicella and chickenpox are closely related, but they aren’t always interchangeable. Varicella is the technical, medical term for the disease, while chickenpox is the common, everyday term. Varicella is also the name of the virus.
- Use varicella when discussing the disease in a medical or scientific context, or when referring to the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
- Use chickenpox in general conversations, educational materials for the public, and less formal writing.
It is crucial to remember that varicella is always lowercased unless it begins a sentence or appears in a title where title case is required.
Addressing Common Capitalization Mistakes
A frequent error is capitalizing chickenpox simply because it relates to health or medicine. Remember that most disease names are common nouns and therefore not capitalized (e.g., measles, mumps, influenza).
Here are some reminders:
- Think of chickenpox like “the flu” or “a cold.” You wouldn’t capitalize those unless they start a sentence.
- Refer to style guides (AP, Chicago, MLA) for specific guidance on capitalization in different contexts.
- If unsure, err on the side of lowercasing the word, as this is generally considered correct.
Summarizing the Rule: Do You Capitalize Chickenpox?
In nearly every instance, the answer to “Do You Capitalize Chickenpox?” is no. Only capitalize chickenpox at the beginning of a sentence, or when adhering to specific title case rules in headings or titles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chickenpox Capitalization
When should I capitalize “chickenpox”?
You should capitalize chickenpox primarily at the beginning of a sentence. In titles and headings, capitalization follows the specific style guide being used (AP, Chicago, MLA, etc.). Always check the style guide to ensure proper formatting.
Is “varicella” ever capitalized?
Like chickenpox, varicella is generally not capitalized unless it begins a sentence or appears in a title requiring title case. Varicella is the technical term for the disease and the name of the virus, but it still functions as a common noun.
Does the varicella-zoster virus name affect chickenpox capitalization?
No, the fact that the varicella-zoster virus causes chickenpox does not change the capitalization rules for chickenpox itself. VZV is a distinct term.
What if I’m writing for a medical journal?
Even in medical journals, varicella and chickenpox are typically not capitalized. However, it’s crucial to follow the specific guidelines of the journal or publisher, as they may have their own style conventions.
Is there any difference between “Chicken Pox” and “chickenpox” in terms of capitalization?
While “Chicken Pox” might occasionally be seen, “chickenpox” is the generally preferred and accepted spelling. The capitalization rules remain the same: do not capitalize unless required by sentence structure or a title format.
What about diseases named after people, like Alzheimer’s disease?
Diseases named after people (eponyms) are capitalized in their adjectival form (Alzheimer’s disease), but the word “disease” following is not. This does not apply to chickenpox, as it’s not an eponym.
If I’m creating a brochure for a doctor’s office, should I capitalize it?
For a brochure targeted at the general public, stick to the standard rule – do not capitalize chickenpox unless it begins a sentence or falls under title case rules in a heading. Clarity and readability are paramount in patient-facing materials.
Does capitalization affect the understanding of the text?
While generally no, incorrect capitalization can sometimes distract the reader and give the impression of carelessness. Consistent adherence to capitalization rules enhances the overall professionalism and credibility of your writing.
Where can I find a reliable style guide for medical writing?
The AMA Manual of Style is a widely respected resource for medical writing. Many publications also adhere to the AP Stylebook or the Chicago Manual of Style.
Is it ever appropriate to use all caps for “CHICKENPOX”?
Using all caps is generally reserved for emphasis in very specific contexts (like advertisements or urgent warnings), but it’s not appropriate in standard writing or medical documentation.
How does capitalization of “chickenpox vaccine” work?
The same rules apply to “chickenpox vaccine.” The word “vaccine” is a common noun, and therefore is not capitalized unless it starts a sentence or is part of a title/heading requiring title case.
What’s the best way to remember the rule?
Think of other common diseases like measles, mumps, or the flu. You don’t typically capitalize these (unless at the start of a sentence). Similarly, chickenpox follows the same convention.