If a global plague outbreak begins, the world could run through critical antibiotics far faster than supplies can be replaced

WHO notes that some traditional plague antibiotics are becoming less available worldwide
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK571130/
WHO’s plague guidelines specifically note that streptomycin and chloramphenicol have become less available worldwide because of reduced production. At the same time, WHO recommends multiple alternative antibiotics, so this does not mean the world currently has only one drug to treat plague.

Gentamicin injection is already in shortage in the United States
https://www.ashp.org/drug-shortages/current-shortages/drug-shortage-detail.aspx?id=718
ASHP reports Hikma’s gentamicin is on shortage because of increased demand, while Pfizer’s supply is affected by manufacturing delays. Some products remain available, but Pfizer has only limited supply and Hikma cannot estimate a release date.

WHO warns untreated pneumonic plague can become fatal within 18–24 hours
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/plague
WHO says pneumonic plague can kill within 18–24 hours after disease onset if untreated, making rapid access to effective antibiotics critical.

h/t ^TrInItY^