The number of studies devoted to Epstein-Barr viral infection (EBV infection) has been growing in recent years. However, they all relate to the clinical aspects of this problem. Epidemiology issues remain practically unexplored. A review of domestic and foreign publications has shown that at the present stage there is a high intensity of the epidemic process of EBV infection both in Russia and abroad. The main indicators of unfavorable epidemiological situation are the ubiquitous spread of the pathogen and the increase in the incidence of infectious mononucleosis in recent years. The deterioration of the epidemic situation of EBV infection is influenced by changes in the immunological reactivity of various population groups due to the spread of HIV, HBV, HCV, the causative agent of tuberculosis and SARS-CoV-2. The above makes it possible to classify the problem as a global one and determines the need for the rapid implementation of the system of epidemiological surveillance of EBV infection and optimization of the complex of preventive and anti-epidemic measures. Reducing the burden of EBV is possible only with the consolidated participation of specialists of various profiles.