An evaluation of bird flu begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Physical findings in those with bird flu may include:

• Fever
• Lung congestion:
• On auscultation of the lungs
• Rapid breathing rate
• Rapid pulse
• Rash
• Runny nose
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Throat redness

This diagnosis of bird flu requires testing.

Tests that may be used to evaluate bird flu include:

• Blood testing to identify the virus
• Testing the mucus from the nose or throat for the virus
• Complete blood count
• Chest x-ray:
• Normal chest x-ray
• Chest x-ray showing pneumonia
• Pulse oximetry
• Blood cultures
• Sputum culture:
• For bacteria and viruses
• Rapid influenza testing
• To exclude influenza A or influenza B as the underlying cause
• Urine antigen testing for pneumococcus or Legionella