Table 1 Scope of study

Epidemiological investigation and surveillance: tracking of cases and contacts, outbreak investigation, including identification of sources and transmission modes;

Clinical research: research involving the systematic observations of, data collection from, diagnostic or intervention(s) on multiple or individual cases;

Laboratory research: research involving all activities concerning laboratory outbreak response and research, including the sharing of microbial genetic resources, i.e. strains and genetic sequence data from pathogens and related metadata, samples, assays, protocols, and experiences

Levels of data sharing (representing the operating levels of stakeholders)

National, where data is shared among stakeholders within Qatar and is used to monitor population health, target response, and resource allocation;

Regional, where data is shared among countries in the same region, or a group of countries with a collaborating institute or organization;

International, where data is shared among countries and organizations outside the region, including research institutes;

Global, where data is shared among international agencies, and inter-agency levels, and is used to estimate the global burden of disease and to contain emerging global health threats