Can the rabies virus multiply in saliva?

No. Viruses do not multiply as bacteria do. They are obliged to take over the nucleus of a living cell in order to restructure that genetic material to replicate thousands of copies of itself. read more

After it enters the body through a bite; the rabies virus travels from the site of the bite to the brain by moving within nerves. The virus multiplies in the brain; causing inflammation; then moves to the salivary glands and saliva. read more

Transmission occurs when saliva containing the rabies virus is introduced into an opening in the skin, usually via the bite of a rabid animal. Though rare, transmission could occur through infected saliva contacting mucous membranes or a scratch or other break in the skin. read more