The statement came after the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (Acip) supported ‘individual-based decision-making' on vaccinating babies born to mothers who have tested negative for the infection.

US health secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr, who is a vaccine sceptic, replaced the members of Acip earlier this year.

The panel is responsible for making recommendations on vaccinations to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dr Alison Cave, chief safety officer at the MHRA, said: ‘Patient safety is our top priority, which is why all vaccines authorised for use in the UK undergo rigorous assessment for safety, quality and effectiveness.  

 ‘The UK has been providing universal hepatitis B vaccination for all babies since August 2017. It has a well-established safety record and ensures long-term protection against the virus.  

 ‘All pregnant women in the UK are routinely tested for hepatitis B during the very early stages of pregnancy.  

 ‘Any babies born to mothers who are found to be infected with hepatitis B, who are considered to be at high-risk of contracting the virus, will be vaccinated within 24 hours of birth. All other babies will be routinely vaccinated from eight weeks of age.  

 ‘Extensive safety monitoring in the UK and internationally continues to show that the benefits of these vaccinations outweigh any risks. 

 ‘We continue to monitor the safety of all vaccines through robust surveillance, including the Yellow Card scheme, and encourage anyone to report any suspected side effects so that we can investigate them and act where necessary.'