Seasonal allergies

Seasonal allergies, often called hay fever, are a common condition that affects lots of people each year. Medically known as allergic rhinitis, they occur when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as pollen from trees and grasses. Symptoms can range from mildly annoying to significantly disruptive, especially during peak allergy seasons in spring and autumn.

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CERN Health Insurance Scheme (CHIS) – Monthly contributions as of 1 January 2026

The CHIS contribution rates are unchanged for 2026, but the contributions themselves will evolve due to the change in the relevant Reference Salary (see Chapter XII of the CHIS Rules). Thus, as of 1 January 2026, the lump-sum monthly contributions based on Reference Salary II will be as follows:

  1. Lump-sum contributions for voluntary members

The monthly contribution for voluntary members (e.g. users and associates) with the normal health insurance will be 1 305 CHF per month, whilst for those with the reduced health insurance it will be 652 CHF.

  1. Lump-sum contributions for post-compulsory members other than CERN pensioners

For post-compulsory members other than CERN pensioners, the monthly contribution will be 1 393 CHF in the case of former staff members awaiting a deferred pension and former spouses continuing their affiliation, whilst in the case of formerly dependent children continuing theirs it will be 557 CHF.

Winter Sports: Enjoy the Season Safely - December 2025

Although the region is rich in outdoor activities year-round, we’re fortunate that with the first snowfall, winter sports are ushered into the mix —from skiing and snowboarding to Nordic skiing, ice skating and snowshoeing. These activities are an excellent way to stay active and appreciate the impressive mountain scenery, but they also carry certain risks that can easily be underestimated.

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