Russia's Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has tested positive for COVID-19 as the country's total number of confirmed cases surged past 100,000 after its largest daily increase.

During a televised meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Mishustin said he has to "observe self-isolation" to protect his colleagues, suggesting a temporary acting prime minister. The president swiftly signed a decree appointing First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov as a temporary replacement.

"Dear Vladimir Vladimirovich, it has just become known that the tests that I passed for coronavirus gave a positive result. In this regard, and in accordance with the requirements of Rospotrebnadzor, I must accordingly comply with self-isolation, follow the instructions of the doctors. This must be done to protect my colleagues," RIA news agency quoted Mishustin as saying.

In response, Putin assured Mishustin that contracting COVID-19 "can happen to anyone" and that no major decisions would be made without his input.

"I hope that you stay able to work," Putin told Mishustin, who is the highest level Russian official to become infected.

"Call me as soon as you arrive at the hospital," said Putin, who appointed Mishustin in a surprise decision in January, picking the former tax service chief to replace longtime premier Dmitry Medvedev.

A spike of 7,099 confirmed infections in the last 24 hours brought Russia's total to 106,498 cases and 1,073 deaths, according to the government's daily coronavirus update.

With its number of cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. 

Read more:

Graphics: Why there was a sudden spike in Russia's coronavirus cases

But Russia's coronavirus death rate remains relatively low and Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the country's actions had helped it avoid the catastrophic "Italian scenario." 

Russia's success was down due to "tough self-isolation decisions" and government measures "which convinced people to stay at home," Peskov told the RTVI television channel. 

He also said Russia had quickly and efficiently increased the number of available hospital beds. 

The virus has spread to all 85 regions of the country, with Moscow – the epicenter – having reported around half the nationwide case tally.

The Kremlin extended this week a "non-working" period until May 11 when Russians would stay at home but still receive their salaries as part of sweeping efforts to contain the virus. 

Mishustin extended a ban on entry for foreigners into the country on Wednesday, which had been due to expire Thursday, until "the fight against the infection is over and the epidemic situation has improved." 

The pandemic has thwarted several major political events for the Kremlin this year, with Putin postponing a massive military parade on May 9 commemorating the 75th anniversary of victory in World War II. Many world leaders had been due to attend.

(With input from agencies)