Germans and Cheeseheads May Dodge Bird Flu

And you thought sauerkraut was just repellent to people with good taste; it also may be a deterrant to the H5N1 virus that causes avian flu:

Sauerkraut, the dish adored in Germany but much maligned in Britain, could prove to be a secret weapon against the threat of bird flu, experts revealed yesterday.

Scientists believe that the traditional recipe, which is made from chopped cabbage that is fermented for at least a month, contains a bacteria that may combat the potentially fatal disease.

The Wisconsin cheeseheads will no doubt be piling on the kraut with their brats and beer. The rest of us will just take our chances without it.

If this pans out, you better start buying stock in Der Wienerschnitzel. People will be lined up to receive their Kraut Dog vaccinations.