Timothy JWS, et al. - Performing this cross-sectional seroprevalence survey, the occurrence of previously undocumented Ebola virus disease (EVD) cases and infections was determined in addition to reconstructing transmission events. Researchers used a highly specific oral fluid test and detailed interviews of all households in the village and key informants to perform this survey of the adult population of Meliandou. This spillover population showed more widespread Ebola virus infection than previously recognized (21 vs 11 cases). The serological evidence of survivors in this population (eight anti-Ebola virus IgG seropositive) was presented for the first time. This work indicated lower case fatality than previously reported (55·6% vs 100% in adults). Data thereby show the achievability of high community coverage by using a non-invasive test; this together with accurate documentation of the beginnings of the west African Ebola virus outbreak, enhanced the knowledge regarding the transmission dynamics and risk factors that underpin Ebola virus spillover events.