This study demonstrates the feasibility of detecting 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in saliva specimens from patients. Among 12 patients with laboratory-confirmed 2019-nCoV infection, 2019-nCoV was detected in the saliva of 11 patients (91.7%). Serial saliva specimens showed a general decline in viral load, and live virus was detected in saliva by viral culture in three patients. Saliva is a promising noninvasive specimen for diagnosis, monitoring, and infection control in 2019-nCoV patients, as it reduces the risk of nosocomial transmission and allows for easier and less painful specimen collection. The study highlights the importance of early detection and isolation to control the outbreak and the potential for 2019-nCoV transmission via saliva, emphasizing the need for continued surveillance and preventive measures.This study demonstrates the feasibility of detecting 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in saliva specimens from patients. Among 12 patients with laboratory-confirmed 2019-nCoV infection, 2019-nCoV was detected in the saliva of 11 patients (91.7%). Serial saliva specimens showed a general decline in viral load, and live virus was detected in saliva by viral culture in three patients. Saliva is a promising noninvasive specimen for diagnosis, monitoring, and infection control in 2019-nCoV patients, as it reduces the risk of nosocomial transmission and allows for easier and less painful specimen collection. The study highlights the importance of early detection and isolation to control the outbreak and the potential for 2019-nCoV transmission via saliva, emphasizing the need for continued surveillance and preventive measures.