Organizational Determinants of Zoonotic Disease Prevention in Facilities Handling Animal Products: Analysis of Waste Management and Vaccination Practices in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract

Zoonotic diseases represent a major public health challenge, particularly in resource-limited countries where health and environmental management systems are insufficiently structured. This study aims to analyze the organizational factors associated with the prevention of zoonotic diseases in facilities handling animal products in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted with 169 organizations (public markets, slaughterhouses, butcher shops, supermarkets, and delicatessens). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire focusing on waste management practices, the existence of regulations, and worker vaccination status. Statistical analysis included a descriptive approach, bivariate analysis (chi-square test), and binary logistic regression to identify independent determinants. The results show that 57.4% of organizations do not have a formalized waste management procedure, 78.1% do not sort waste, and 82.8% do not treat liquid effluents. Bivariate analysis reveals significant associations between waste management and organizational variables (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identifies waste sorting (OR = 18.13), liquid effluent treatment (OR = 7.23), and regulatory compliance (OR = 3.96) as major independent determinants. The model demonstrates good predictive performance (AUC = 0.844). In conclusion, the prevention of zoonotic diseases in the studied facilities depends heavily on the level of internal organization and the application of the regulatory framework. Strengthening waste management practices, particularly the sorting and treatment of effluents, as well as the effective application of health standards, is a priority. These results support the implementation of an integrated "One Health" approach to sustainably improve public health.