Generation of high-quality evidence during outbreaks and health emergencies coupled with strengthening local research capacity can support a contextualized and effective epidemic response.

Epidemiologic surveillance data showed that most newborns of Zika-infected pregnant women were born at term, and that the frequency of low birthweight infants was low. Good quality data were obtained from the surveillance registries.

Neonatal surveillance for congenital Zika infection in Brazil and the identification of Zika virus in microcephalic and normocephalic newborns.

The Zika virus epidemic has different effects on women's and men's reproductive health. This calls for a multidimensional approach to the epidemic.

The repercussions of congenital Zika syndrome on mothers’ lives is a burden. Social inequality and poverty are important markers that exacerbate precarious social conditions.

Policy makers need to consider identified gaps when they adapt and implement new clinical care guidelines for maternal and perinatal health.

Women interviewed were unaware of sexual transmission of the Zika virus. Women desired continuous counselling and support during their pregnancy and after the birth.

A cost-effective and culturally competent approach should include a broader focus on family planning and child development surveillance. This requires cross-disciplinary collaboration between nurses and midwives.

The spatial distribution of the estimated risk of Zika virus disease in Colombia was four times higher during the epidemic phase of the outbreak.

The sociodemographic profile of cases of Zika virus and congenital Zika virus syndrome reveals different impacts on social strata and reflects the social geography of inequality in Brazil.

The introduction of novel viruses increases the incidence of inflammatory neuropathies in Brazil.