Mail carrier making protective masks for other essential workers

ATLANTA - Postal carrier Dujuana Drake interacts with the public every day, increasing her risk of possible exposure to COVID-19. Now, she's using her talents to help other essential workers.

When Drake isn't out delivering mail, she can be found at her sewing machine making protective masks.

Drake told FOX 5's Deidra Dukes, "I actually started making masks because it's allergy season in Georgia.  There are no masks for us to indulge in like we normally do. Myself and a couple of other co-workers have allergies bad, so I said, ‘Let me try to make a mask.’"

SEE ALSO: Emory Healthcare accepting donations of unopened medical supplies

SEE ALSO: Georgia camper sewing masks to donate to hospital

What started as a practical solution for the U.S. postal worker and her colleagues quickly took on a life of its own amid growing concern over COVID-19.

She's now fielding orders from people hoping to shield themselves from the virus.

"I'm working, even after work for like six hours a night making as many masks as I can make", said Drake.

SEE ALSO: Volunteers sew masks to aid healthcare workers

She's donating masks to healthcare providers and others on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic.

"All the healthcare, first responders that come to me, no they won't have to pay for a mask because they are on the front lines like myself dealing with people on a day to day basis."

SEE ALSO: Atlanta engineers use technology to print masks and face shields

Drake said she uses the money from the sales to purchase the material for the masks she donates.

Know how the COVID-19 outbreak is impacting Georiga

Best prevention measures:

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least twenty seconds.
• If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

SEE ALSO: Dressmaker turns to mask-making as coronavirus pandemic cancels formal events

RESOURCES:

• Symptoms, testing and how to prepare amid growing COVID-19 outbreak
• Who is most susceptible to coronavirus? COVID-19 not just affecting older people
• Coronavirus cleaners: These products will kill COVID-19, according to the EPA
• Coronavirus and pets: Your cat or dog probably can’t get COVID-19, WHO says
• Will sick leave protect me if I get ill from coronavirus? 5 questions answered
• RELATED: CoronavirusNOW.com, FOX launches national hub for COVID-19 news and updates.