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We would like to thank those of you who provided data on novel CoV PCR testing capacity; we are impressed by how geographically diverse this coverage is within ISARIC.During the last ISARIC Executive call (18/01/13), we became aware of a number of sites preparing to test retrospective samples for novel Coronavirus by PCR. One of our member networks has decided to test from the date of citizens returning from the Hajj.As written in our statement back in September 2012, when we suggested the storage of samples for future analysis, we support a retrospective study – if your network has the capacity to do so. Sadly, ISARIC is not in a position to fund this work but we are happy to help with the coordination of it.The 2 sites that we are aware of planning to do this work are keen to share their data under an ISARIC banner. This would be our first achievement as ISARIC if other sites were to agree to do the same. We do not envisage this prohibiting primary publications by the sites.As these results will be of public health interest we urge you to liaise with your national public health agency before proceeding with this work. Approval requirements are expected to vary between the sites; it would be very valuable to have your feedback on the process to inform future work with ethical committees and regulatory agencies. A form is available on the website to collect information on this process: http://isaric.tghn.org/articles/isaric-novel-coronavirus-crf-ethics-regulatory-v-10/An electronic CRF for data collection of suspected novel CoV or laboratory confirmed cases will be available to all on the ISARIC web site soon. Completion guidelines will also be posted on the site and electronic data capture will be in place once data management strategy planning is complete.  Please use the WHO Case definitions.If you have any queries please email the Secretariat.