Public health officials initially recommended that the general population avoid wearing masks during the early weeks of the 2020 pandemic, citing limited supplies for medical workers and uncertain evidence of benefit. ______ , as supply chains stabilized and observational studies began suggesting that masking reduced transmission, those officials reversed course and advised universal masking in indoor public spaces.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
- Acheck_circle
However
- B
Even so
- C
Likewise
- D
In particular
Explanation
Officials reversed their stance—a contrast across time. "However" signals contrast. "Even so" suggests persistence despite something; "in particular" specifies; "likewise" parallels.