[iforgotpassword]

I agree with your initial reasoning, although given the long incubation period that was initially unknown I still see a high chance this would have spread either way. But

> and could have provided earlier warnings to the world to prepare for an epidemic or pandemic that might not have even happened.

Not in a thousand years. The west was sitting on their hands for almost two months, busy armchair-commenting on the CCP's failings, preparing half-heartedly at best, taking no proactive measures whatsoever. I'm utterly disappointed with my government and don't see how this would have turned out any different for us had we had twice as much time to prepare, or had this originated in a western country.