This document relates to methods and materials involved in treating and/or preventing and/or reducing the severity of a viral infection present in a mammal. For example, methods and materials for reducing the severity of a viral infection present in a mammal (e.g., a human) are provided.

A method for selecting cancer patient for treatment with Seneca Valley Virus (SVV) by determining expression of ANTXR1 in a cancerous tissue in a cancer patient; and designating the cancer patient as a candidate for treatment with SVV if normal levels or elevated levels of ANTXR1 expression is detected in the cancerous tissue. Also a method for treating a cancer patient with SVV is disclosed.