On Monday, US President Donald Trump called for major changes to the routine infant vaccination schedule, claiming—without scientific evidence—that there is “no reason” to vaccinate newborns against Hepatitis B, a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening disease.

“I would say, wait until the baby is 12 years old and formed,” Trump said, directly contradicting the broad medical consensus.

Health authorities emphasise that vaccinating newborns within the first 24 hours of life is the most effective way to prevent maternal transmission of Hepatitis B, a virus that can cause severe liver damage and cancer later in life.

This statement follows a pattern of controversial remarks by Trump regarding childhood vaccinations, raising concern among public health officials over misinformation about proven preventive measures.