That would also be a reason to “lag” on getting test kits out. Verification via the kits would alter peoples behavior before the inoculative strain had time to propagate, allowing for more of the actual bug to circulate... Food for thought...
The question is—could the test kits (that actually work with this specific virus) have gotten out earlier.
I consider that an open question—but a valid question to ask.
(Were the South Koreans and the Italians actually ahead of us in testing technology? Don’t know the answer—would like to know it.)
But, imho, at this point the states will be managing the process to show what they are comfortable showing, ready to handle, etc. It is a fine line to get folks preparing without causing panic—no guarantees you will get it right.
If you know that at some near future point the hospitals will be overwhelmed, how do you manage that without leaks and causing panic? I think .gov is more comfortable in being late than being early for that reason.