The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that has emerged as a significant threat in the region of the Americas, especially for pregnant women. Recent outbreaks in Central and South America have been associated with an increase in the incidence of microcephaly and other central nervous system abnormalities in newborns. There is a causal link between Zika infection during pregnancy and microcephaly and other neurological disorders. The region faces a probable epidemic with potential consequences for pregnant women and newborns. The epidemiology of the Zika virus, its threat to pregnancy, clinical consequences and impact on public health are reviewed. A number of features of the mechanisms of infection and dissemination sustain preventive interventions, diagnosis and management of the disease. It is important to intensify its epidemiological surveillance, and to work on prevention and...