Washington (CNN) Defense Secretary Mark Esper announced Tuesday the department will make 14 certified coronavirus testing labs available to test civilians and donate five million medical masks to the Department of Health and Human Services for distribution as hospitals deal with an influx of patients during the pandemic.

Esper said at a briefing that of the five million N95 masks -- which health care workers wear to treat infectious diseases -- one million will be made available "immediately." He also said the department is prepared to distribute up to 2,000 ventilators "as needed."

Two additional coronavirus testing labs would soon be offered by the department, Esper said.

In addition to the masks, ventilators and testing labs, Esper said the department is "considering activating National Guard and reserve units to assist states with planning, logistics, and medical support as needed."

"In my conversations with governors and members of Congress about DOD's resources, I've made it clear that we will continue to support the administration's comprehensive efforts and the country every step of the way, while ensuring our nation's security remains the top priority" of the department, the secretary said.